GSU labour to dispatch KDF as tough Prisons dismiss Co-op

Defending champions General Service Unit were stretched to the limit before registering a deserved 3-2 sets victory over Kenya Defence Forces in their first match of the men’s National volleyball league play-offs at the KPA Hall in Makande, Mombasa.

Earlier, Kenya Prisons made clear their intentions of reclaiming the title with an emphatic 3-1 victory over stubborn Co-operative Bank of Kenya in the day’s opening match at the same venue.

KDF, who had in their ranks former national coach Sammy Mulinge, responded to every threat by GSU.

After winning the first set 25-22, GSU found themselves in the deep end, losing the next two sets 22-25, 28-30 but a late rally by the defending champions saw them come from behind to win the fourth set 25-17, setting the stage for a marathon fifth set which they won 15-13.

GSU  got a much-needed Game One victory in the encounter which saw Tarus Kirwa and setter Elisha Aliwa play a leading role for KDF while David Kirwa and Samuel Mathenge lifted the defending champions.

MAJOR BLOW
Earlier, Co-op Bank gave Prisons an early scare before losing 3-1 sets.

The bankers, who had vowed to give their opponents a run for their money, took the first set 25-20.

But were dealt a major blow when team captain Martin Kimondo limped off with the injury, a move coach Geoffrey Omondi believes disorganized his team.

Prisons coach Gideon Chenje took full advantage of the situation to easily win the next three sets 25-18, 25-20 and 25-15.

“The win has helped us given us a direction as to where we are heading. We will take it one game at a time,” Chenje said.