Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) delivered an awe-inspiring performance, coming back from a set down to claim a remarkable victory against reigning champions Kenya Pipeline in a thrilling evening at the Kasarani Indoor Gymnasium. This triumph marked the end of a 15-year-long wait for the National Women’s Volleyball League title.
The head coach of KCB, Japheth Munala, was overjoyed with the victory, attributing it to four years of hard work and dedication. “We started a bit slowly with some service errors and lost points, but after a talk following the first set, we rectified our mistakes and gained control of the game,” Munala expressed his elation. He went on to commend his players and the entire technical team for their exceptional effort and relentless dedication.
Munala emphasized the unwavering belief his team had displayed, particularly after conceding the first set with a score of 25-18. However, they bounced back spectacularly, winning the next three sets with scores of 25-19, 25-21, and 25-21.
Kenya Pipeline, the defending champions, had initially dominated the match, despite both teams displaying some nerves that led to service errors and easy points.
KCB struggled to find their footing in the first set, with errors in their backcourt defence allowing Pipeline to take a commanding lead of 20-14. A timeout was called by KCB, but despite some effort, they couldn’t salvage the set, and Pipeline claimed it 25-18.
The second set seemed to follow a similar pattern as Pipeline started strong. However, a pivotal timeout called by KCB when they trailed 14-10 changed the tide of the game. KCB went on a 3-0 scoring run, drawing level, and eventually taking control.
They improved their reception and net defence, ultimately winning the set 25-19, with Juliana Namutira delivering a decisive hit at match point.
KCB’s momentum continued to grow, and they maintained their strong performance in the third set. Using more short balls in attack and led by players like Namutira, Mercy Moim, and Belinda Barasa, KCB opened a significant lead, reaching 21-12.
Although Pipeline attempted a comeback with Triza Atuka’s blocks, KCB held their ground and secured the set.
With a 2-1 lead in sets, KCB only needed one more to secure victory. The fourth set proved to be highly competitive, with both teams battling fiercely.
KCB managed to establish a narrow two-point lead at 21-19, prompting a timeout from Pipeline. However, KCB continued their impressive performance, with Edith Wisa’s brilliant block earning them a match point.
In a captivating moment, 16-year-old Marlyn Terry, a form three student at Kwanthanze Girls High School, sealed the victory for KCB with an outstanding strike that pierced through Pipeline’s block. This victory marked the end of a 15-year championship drought for KCB and will undoubtedly be remembered as a historic moment in Kenyan women’s volleyball.
