Kenyan teams in good stead at continental volleyball club championships
Thus far, GSU has won two games against Club Castel of Algeria 3-1 (25-21/21-25/18-25/22-25) in the Group B fixture
Kenyan teams are enjoying a fine run at the 46th edition of the ongoing CAVB Men’s African Volleyball Club Championships taking place in Misurata, Libya.
Thus far, General Service Unit (GSU) has won two games against Club Castel of Algeria 3-1 (25-21/21-25/18-25/22-25) in the Group B fixture. In another duel, they beat Nemostar of Uganda by 3-0.
In Pool C, Kenya Prisons also shone in the competition with a solid fight-back in their 3-1 (25-20/25-19/27-29/ 25-18) win over Ethiopian side Wolaita. The four set thriller was a battle of nerves and tested both teams; however Prisons came through in style.
The Kenyan side started the match with clear determination, dominating the first two sets thanks to a well-organized defense and an efficient attacking strategy. They won the first and second sets convincingly, 25-20 and 25-19, setting the pace early in the match.
The Ethiopians showed great resilience in the third set. Taking advantage of a slight drop in concentration from their opponents and displaying some inspired play, they edged the set 29-27, reigniting hope among their supporters.
That hope was short-lived. Kenya Prisons quickly regained control in the fourth set, maintaining constant pressure that led to a decisive 25-18 finish. This victory strengthens Kenya Prisons’ position in the race for qualification to the next round.
Elsewhere, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) delivered a commanding performance to defeat Al Nasser Sports Club (NSC) of Libya in straight sets (25–23, 25–20, 25–10) during a group stage contest.
The opening set was the most competitive, with Al Nasser putting up a strong fight and even taking the lead at times. However, Kenya Ports Authority maintained composure and precision to close out the set 25–23 after 25 minutes of intense exchanges.
In the second set, KPA gradually increased its dominance. With sharper net play and improved reception, the Kenyan side pulled ahead to claim the set 25–20 in 24 minutes, despite a brief push from the Libyan team.
The third and final set was one-sided. Overwhelmed in every aspect of the game, the home-side fell 25–10 in just 25 minutes, as KPA cruised to a convincing victory in a total match time of 1 hour and 14 minutes. Displaying fluid teamwork and tactical discipline, the Kenyan squad has emerged as a force to be reckoned with on the continental stage. The Dockers are considered heavy contenders in this year’s competition.
