Malkia Strikers on the brink of African Games qualification

Malkia Strikers players celebrate a point against Ethiopia at the ongoing Zone V Africa Games qualifiers at the Lugogo MTN Indoor arena in Kampala, Uganda on May 20, 2019. PHOTO | COURTESY |

What you need to know:

  • Meanwhile, Malkia Strikers contingent in Kampala has accrued a Sh1 million hotel and logistics bill and are unsure of when the government will come and clear it.
  • The players are also awaiting for the Ministry of Sports to pay their camping allowances.

The cash-strapped Kenya national women volleyball team is on the brink of qualifying for the African Games.

On Monday, Malkia Strikers thrashed Ethiopia 25-14, 25-8, 25-10 in its second match at the ongoing Zone V Africa Games qualifiers at the Lugogo MTN Indoor arena in Kampala, Uganda.

This was Kenya's second win of the tournament, coming in the wake of a similar straight sets defeat over Rwanda on the opening day of this four tournament.

"Today's performance was far better than yesterday's," Stars new Italian coach Shaileen Ramdoo pointed out.

"They are a different opposition, with little power player but full of tricks we have had to adjust accordingly."

Captain Mercy Moim and Noel Murambi playing as opposite attackers in this match contributed the most to Kenya's victory, with the Ethiopians seemingly having no answer to the attacks from the opposite ends.

Kenya, which is the tournament's defending champions after winning it in Brazzaville three years ago, will secure qualification with a win against hosts Uganda at the same venue Tuesday evening.

Kenya's task has seemingly been made easier following the last minute withdrawal of Egypt, Tanzania and Burundi.

Uganda beat Ethiopia in both teams' opening match and were due to face Rwanda later Monday.

Meanwhile, Malkia Strikers contingent in Kampala has accrued a Sh1 million hotel and logistics bill and are unsure of when the government will come and clear it.

The players are also awaiting for the Ministry of Sports to pay their camping allowances.