KU, UOE Renew Rivalry as KUSF Ball Games Kick Off at CUEA

Defending champions Kenyatta University (KU) began their title defence on a strong note, edging out rivals University of Eldoret (UOE) 27-17 in a thrilling men’s handball encounter during the opening day of the Kenya Universities Sports Federation (KUSF) ball games at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) on Thursday morning.

The clash, dubbed a “final before the final,” lived up to expectations as last year’s finalists battled in a tightly contested Pool A opener. KU, however, proved superior, replicating their previous victory over UOE to secure a convincing win.

In other men’s handball matches, Rongo University defeated Pwani University 15-10, while former champions Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) overcame Kabarak University 23-16.

Women’s Handball Results

In the women’s category, Daystar University posted a 21-12 win over Egerton University, as Rongo edged past Pwani 15-13. Meru University also impressed, defeating the University of Nairobi (UoN) 23-16.

Netball Action

Men’s netball champions UOE got off to a winning start, narrowly beating KU 15-14 in a Pool A match played on Court One. Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOUOST) saw off Tharaka University 15-13, while UoN defeated Kamusinga Friends University (KAFU) 12-9.

In the women’s matches, KU delivered a dominant performance to thrash defending champions UOE 27-14. Kisii University cruised past Taita Taveta University (TTU) 26-5, while hosts CUEA delighted the home crowd with a 22-19 win over Meru University.

UOE captain Bob Kiluki expressed confidence after their opening win:

“We are here on a mission to defend our title. Winning the first match shows we have prepared well for the national championships,” said Kiluki.

He acknowledged the pressure that comes with being champions but remained optimistic:

“There is pressure because every team wants to beat us, but we are ready. We have prepared well and we are focused on defending our title.”

________________________________________

Volleyball Highlights

Karatina University (KARU) and KU also registered wins in their opening volleyball matches.

In the men’s category, KARU staged a comeback to defeat JKUAT in a five-set thriller (25-17, 14-25, 25-23, 17-25, 15-7). Meanwhile, KU secured a 3-1 victory over KARU in the women’s match (21-25, 23-25, 25-23, 23-25).

KARU men’s captain John Ogweno believes the opening win sets the tone for a strong campaign:

“Winning our first match gives us confidence. Last year we were eliminated in the quarterfinals, which was disappointing. This time, we are aiming for the title,” he said.

“Our strong service, solid blocks, and good reception made the difference today.”