Basketball
Equity Dumas Aims for Second Leg Charge in Title Pursuit
Equity Bank’s Dumas team is gearing up for a formidable title challenge in the upcoming second leg matches, according to coach Carey Oketch.
Oketch, a seasoned tactician, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance in the first leg, during which they secured victories in seven out of their 11 matches. With the team currently occupying the fourth position on the league table with 18 points, Oketch believes they are steadily improving and are poised to contend for the championship once again.
Reflecting on last year’s playoff finals defeat to champions Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), Oketch emphasized the need for his team to maintain their momentum and build on their strengths as they head into the next phase of the competition.
“We’re pleased with how the first leg fixtures unfolded. As we approach the second leg, we’re determined to pick up right where we left off and give it our all,” Oketch remarked. “We’ve addressed any technical shortcomings and fostered a stronger team spirit. We’re evolving together as a unit.”
Dumas concluded their first-leg fixtures on a high note, securing a dominant 84-42 victory over Kenyatta University Pirates in a one-sided premier league encounter at Nyayo Stadium.
The match, which saw Ivan Obimbo score the opening basket, showcased Dumas’ superiority as they stormed to a commanding 31-3 lead in the first quarter. Despite a brief resurgence from KU in the second quarter, Dumas maintained their dominance, outscoring their opponents in each subsequent quarter.
Commenting on his team’s performance, KU coach Hanington Sitati acknowledged the challenges they faced, including injuries to key players, but remained optimistic about their progress.
Meanwhile, in the lower division matches, Stanbic Shields secured a convincing 77-43 win over Neosasa, Zetech University Titans narrowly defeated Coastal Kings 48-44, and Congo Nets edged out Urbanville 57-53.
In the women’s category, Safe Spaces continued their winning streak with a decisive 66-45 victory over Vipers, while Kisumu Lady Bucks delivered a commanding performance, thrashing Multi Media University (MMU) 63-26.