Daystar Falcons ready for KHF challenge

On their debut season in the Kenya Handball Federation (KHF) women's league, Martin Kamau-coached Daystar Falcons have set modest targets for their maiden season. 

Falcons had a baptism-by-fire welcome to the top-tier league on Monday 10 October, going down to school girls Rising Stars in a 42-27 outcome that gave the varsity girls a rude awakening as to the journey they have to take to compete with the rest in the league. 

The side, however, is not oblivious to their situation and coach Kamau says six points at the end of the season is an achievable target. 

"We decided to join the league to get the much-needed exposure for my young squad. Most of them are barely out of teenage hood and some are being introduced to the sport at campus level. 

Playing at this high level will help them learn by doing and improving their skills with each match they play," offered the tactician. 

Having only played at the University games level, Kamau says the intensity and speed of the matches in the league was a different ball game and he was proud of his side for trying to adjust while in action. 

"We opened the season against a young but experienced team and the difference was evident. They beat us through experience and stamina. 

Rising Star knew their positioning, their plays and formations, falling back after attacks and much more. These are areas my team is still struggling with but this was a good start," Kamau added. 

Kuria confident Thika are on right KHF track

The tactician's sentiments were echoed by skipper Vanessa Paula who maintains that the side will soon be able to compete at the same level as the rest of the teams. 

"This is a dream come true to play in the top flight. Our opening match was quite an eye-opener. While there is not much difference with our KUSA games the intensity is higher. 

We have our work cut out in terms of working on our stamina but I am confident we will soon be able to compete at the same level with the rest of the teams. 

We have to be ready to play as a team, be resilient, make use of each scoring opportunity and keep improving with each match," Paula said. 

On the weekend, the varsity side play their second match of the season against visiting Rangers Women on Saturday from 13.30pm.