Pipeline, Prisons clash in Paul Bitok tournament semis

Defending champions Kenya Pipeline and perennial rivals Kenya Prisons are set to face off in one of the semi-finals of the inaugural Paul Bitok International Volleyball Tournament at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani Indoor Arena on Sunday.

Pipeline finished unbeaten at the top of Group “A” with nine points from three matches, while Prisons secured second place in Pool “B” behind KCB Women’s Volleyball team.

Pipeline previously defeated Prisons 3-0 during the 2022/23 Kenya Volleyball Federation Women’s National League playoffs held at Kasarani in January.

However, Pipeline coach Paul Gitau acknowledged that his team received a wake-up call when they dropped a set against the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in the preliminary group stage.

Despite the setback, Gitau expressed pride in his team’s performance and highlighted the depth of talent in the middle blockers department, with players like Lydia Iswan, Triza Atuka, and Gladys Ekaru proving their worth.

He emphasized the importance of playing good volleyball and aiming for a spot in the final.

On the other hand, DCI coach Daniel Bor acknowledged that his team has yet to regain their rhythm but remained optimistic about their performance against KCB in the semi-finals.

KCB topped Pool “B” undefeated with 12 points, having secured four wins, including victories against Prisons and Kenya Army.

In the men’s semi-finals, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) will face off against KDF, while Kenya Prisons will take on Trailblazers at Nyayo National Stadium gymnasium in Nairobi.

KPA defeated the Administration Police of Kenya (APK) 3-0 to reach the semi-finals, while KDF overcame KAPU 3-0.

In another thrilling quarter-final match, Kenya Prisons beat their rivals General Service Unit 3-1, securing a spot in the semi-finals. Trailblazers also secured a semi-final spot with a 3-1 victory against Equity Bank at Nyayo Stadium.

After the semi-finals at Nyayo Stadium, the men’s final will be played at Kasarani, promising an exciting conclusion to the Paul Bitok International Volleyball Tournament.