By OUR CORRESPONDENT
Kisii Industrial edged Matieko FC 5-4 on penalties to lift the inaugural Kitutu Chache South National Government Constituency Development Fund men’s soccer tournament.
After a barren draw at full-time, the game went straight to penalties. The game was played at Cardinal Otunga High School, Mosocho.
During the dramatic shootout, Kisii Industrial’s goalkeeper was the hero of the game after saving Dickson Nyakundi’s penalty.
Elijah Manwa, Washington Amayuku, Clinton Omondi, Abdul Aziz, and Nick Odhiambo scored for Kisii Industrial while Matieko’s penalty kicks were converted by Steven Ouru, Fred Onsando, Rolex Odhiambo and Philliup Nyamweya converted for Matieko.
In the women’s category, Kitutu Central Queens narrowly beat Riotero Queens 1-0 to lift the title. Sylvia Ondiba scored the all-important goal for Kitutu Central.
The extravaganza was graced by the tournament’s patron who is the area MP Anthony Kibagendi, Kisii Governor Simba Arati, Kisii Woman Representative Dorice Donya Aburi, Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo and Bomachoge Borabu’s Obadiah Barongo.
The extravaganza also featured sack races, athletics, spoon egg races, and eating competitions.
A total of 53 men’s teams and 17 teams participated in the month-long tournament which attracted scouts from Kenya Premier League clubs Shabana, Posta Rangers, Kenya Police, Ulinzi Stars, and National Super League side Gusii FC.
Governor Simba Arati announced that the county has allocated Sh10 million for the inaugural Governors Cup which will be held next year.
The winning teams received Sh150,000, with the second-placed getting Sh100,000. The third-place finishers got Sh75,000.
Also awarded were the best goalkeepers, top scorers, and best goalkeepers. The best player in the men’s category Steven Ouko of Matieko FC landed a full scholarship from the MP. Kibagendi pledged to sponsor the tournament annually.
Ends
