Handball: Positive start for title-hunting Ulinzi as Sharks fall

Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) handball sides blew hot and cold as the Kenya Handball Federation (KHF) pre-season tournament, Super Cup, got underway. 

Under the tutelage of Nixon Oyaro, the men's side, Ulinzi HC picked an easy 37-19 win over Kenyatta University in a dominant show of might in the opening fixture of the tournament. 

Handball: NCPB get Super Cup title defense off to winning start

The women’s side, Ulinzi Sharks, up against National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) Ladies, threw away an early 7-3 lead against the Bryan Matthew-coached millers as they went on to lose the match 26-29. 

Coach Oyaro's charges got their campaign underway with a well-deserved victory as they played a huge second half, having led 15-11 in the first half for the 18-goal win. 

"We had a good match, all the players gave their all as all matches are very important for us if we are to fight for this Cup. We are through to the semis but we will not be complacent in the next match," Oyaro said in his post-match interview. 

Kevin Imo, who missed the side's final league match against champions National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) due to suspension, made a comeback with a match-high 12 goals. 

"Competition gets tougher as we advance but we have prepared for all that. Lifting this Cup would mean alot for the team as it has been a long time coming. It will also be a good start for the season as we look to fight for the league title," Oyaro added. 

Meanwhile, their counterparts Sharks who had finished the last league season in second place, behind winners Nairobi Water Queens, enjoyed a good start but fizzled out, allowing NCPB back to level the score at 13. 

Mathew's charges assumed lead from then on, heading to the break with a two-goal lead at 14-16. 

The Emmanuel Kieti-coached military side never recovered as NCPB returned for the second half ready to defend their advantage, and defend they did. 

So tight was NCPB's defence such that the team's usual scorers Euphrasia Mukasia was scoreless and Karen Lutengeya finished the match with one goal. 

Sarah Wasike converted seven as did new signing from Rangers, Martha Lavendah but it was not enough to hand the soldiers victory. 

Sarah Mabonga and Joan Akinyi combined for 12 goals for NCPB as Naomi Muyoka, joining the millers for the new season from Kimilili-based Rangers, added five to the final tally.