TOKYO 2020: Malkia Strikers fall to South Korea

Malkia Strikers continued their bad patch at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics Games as they suffered their second loss at the summer games, going down once again by three straight sets in the hands of South Korea.

Despite losing in three straight sets of 25-14, 25-22 and 26-24, the ladies put up a spirited performance especially in the last two sets but South Korea were just too technical when it mattered most.

The Kenyan team had started their campaign on the wrong foot on Sunday, losing by a similar set scoreline in the hands of hosts Japan.

Malkia started out well in the first set, leading 5-1 in the initial stages and forcing South Korea to call for their first timeout which worked wonders as they immediately turned the game in their favor.

There was no looking back for South Korea, who went hard on the pedal to see off Malkia in that set 25-14.

In the second set, South Korea took control in the initial stages but Malkia fought their way up but ended up losing, but this time with a respectable 25-22.

They gave their best in the third set, pushing South Korea toe-to-toe and could have won that set and take the game to a fourth one as they tied at 24-24 at some point but South Korea went ahead to win that set too 26-24 and win the game.

Coach Luizomar De Moura picked the same team he had picked for his opening assignment against Japan with a familiar first six of captain Mercy Moim, Edith Wisa, Leonida Kasaya, Jane Wacu, Gladys Ekaru, and Sharon Chepchumba, with Agripina Kundu playing Libero.

The loss leaves Malkia Strikers rooted deep at the bottom of Group A standings after two losing both their group matches.

Malkia Strikers will be hoping to turn the tides when they play Group leaders Serbia on Thursday at 8:20 in the morning.