By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Dallas and Golden bagged the men’s and women’s titles at the 14th edition of Chris Oguso Football Tournament held in Vihiga County.
Dallas triumphed in the men’s final when they beat the Red Bees 4-2 through penalty kicks after a goalless draw in normal time at Mahanga grounds.
Inspirational Captain Brandon Mweresa scored the winning penalty for Dallas. It was a second consecutive loss in the finals for Red Bees having lost 2-1 against Chavavo FC in last year’s final.
Following their impressive performance, Red Bees duo Clinton Ashuga and Artemans Atiema together with Dallas’ Hilary Jandi were given an opportunity to train with FKF Premier League side Kakamega Homeboyz
In the women’s category Golden beat Nice 2-1 in the final which was attended by Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli and the tournament organizer Chris Oguso who is the Kenya Police Chief Executive Officer. Oguso is also the Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s head of security.
Golden goals were scored by Rebecca Kwoba and Perace Elizabeth while Mercy Wafula scored Nice’s consolation goal.
Dallas went home with a trophy and Sh300, 000 while the champions in the women’s category Golden were awarded a trophy and Sh200, 000.
Speaking during the award ceremony, Masengeli hailed the winning teams. “I want to encourage young people to avoid criminial activities and focus on building their careers,” said Masengeli.
Oguso said the tournament has helped unearth talents. “Some players from this tournament have been scouted and are playing for various teams among them Kenya Police FC and Kenya Police Bullets,” he said.
Several dignitaries among them veteran coaches graced the event. Immediate former Murang’a Seal coach Juma Abdalla and Vihiga United’s Edward Manoah graced the event to scout for talent. Betika Brand Manager Eric Mwiti, Kakamega Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula, his Nzoia Sugar counterpart Evance Kadenge, Vihiga United chairman Kahi Indimuli also attended the annual tournament.
Mwiti revealed that Betika will engage the newly elected FKF officials seeking to sponsor the FKF Premier League next season.
