Nairobi Water Queens continue league dominance with ninth consecutive title

A ninth consecutive league title! Yes, that is the crazy streak Nairobi Water Queens handball team has been on in the women’s league.

On Sunday 2 April, the Jack Ochieng-led side put on yet another dominant performance against National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) to seal the title unbeaten.

Cecelia Katheu scored ten goals to lead Water to a 33-18 convincing win that puts Ochieng’s charges on a pedestal no other team is likely to challenge any time soon.

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“We were out to clinch another unbeaten title and here we are. I am happy that the players kept the fight, despite having some key players out on injury, and we have won,” offered Ochieng.

The side finished on 44 points, six ahead of second-placed Ulinzi Sharks who lost three, two in the hands of the champions in their home and away ties and one to Rangers Women.

With the loss on the final day of action, Brian Mathew’s NCPB finish in third-place on 36 points from 18 wins, and four losses. Rangers won 15, drew twice and lost five for 32 points and a Super Cup place.

“Other teams are coming up if the chase for Super Cup places this season is anything to go by so we cannot sit on our laurels and be comfortable where we are. We have been tested severally this season but my squad depth and experience has been our saving grace,” Ochieng added.

In their last match of the season, Sharks faced off with NCPB on Saturday, coming from behind to pick a 26-22 win and seal second place.

Coach Emmanuel Kieti says it was crucial for the squad to finish on a high, promising to build on that momentum in the new season.

“I am happy with the team’s improvement. Apart form the shock defeat to Rangers, the other two have been against the champions but the margins keep on narrowing.

That means the team is improving and gives us hope that we will soon be able to contain them. The new season gives us that chance,” Kieti offered.