Battle of Queens with WPL final slots in the offing

Women Premier League (WPL) defending champions Vihiga Queens will not bank on their dependable goal poacher Terry Engesha when they face title hopefuls Gaspo Women in one of two playoff semifinal matches at ASK Grounds Nakuru. 

In the absence of Engesha, coach Alex Alumira will depend on Harambee Starlets' sensation Jentrix Shikangwa who since rejoining the side upon completing high school has been on a goal-scoring spree. The youngster managed five goals, getting on the scoresheet in all the four matches she has played upon return.  

Shikangwa, who had to take a break when schools re-opened has played nine matches this season for 12 goals. She is expected to partner with Topister Situma with attacking midfielder Janet Bundi also a reliable goal scorer for the defending champions. 

"Let's just say we will not be banking on Engesha but I am confident Shikangwa will take care of business upfront with Situma and Bundi. Shikangwa has 100% record in Vihiga colours and we expect the same form in the semis. Additionally, Anne Norah, despite playing as a substitute in all the matches she has had a chance to, has been impressive and her pace and power will come in handy," said Alumira. 

Vihiga are, however, up against a Gaspo forward that has speedsters Elizabeth Wambui and Mercy Airo as well as midfield maestro Corazone Aquino. 

"We have taken keen interest in their forwards but from the past experiences against those players, we have never had issues handling them. This is largely the same squad we have played when the league was unified but for Airo. We have faced her with her former club, Kisumu All Starlets and I have to give it to her,  She's technical, pact and brainy. She is not an easy opponent to face but we will try and nullify her," Alumira opines. 

If history is anything to go, Vihiga have the upper hand as they have faced Gaspo on four different occasions, winning in all of them. 

"In 2018 we won 2-0 away in Ruiru and 3-0 home in Mumias and the 2019 it was a 4-1 win in Mumias and a 2-1 win in Ruiru. We've scored 11 and conceded twice," said Alumira. 

On his part, Gaspo Women's Ayub Inziani says that his charges are ready for the task ahead adding that history is just that and they are heading to the match for a win. 

In the other semi, Thika Queens take on Nakuru West Queens as the latter continue their fairy tale season. Having surprised Ulinzi Starlets who were the favourites in the quarters, Bernard Esitoko's charges are looking to cause an upset against former champions Thika.