Kenya’s Military side Ulinzi Stars bounced back to the winning ways after trouncing Burundi National Defence Force 3-1 in an exciting match in the on-going East Africa Military Games, at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, on saturday.
The hosts took an early lead in the sixth minute through Stephen Waruru’s strike after pouncing on Kevin Amwayi’s well taken free-kick at the edge of the box.
In less than five minutes, Ulinzi scored the second goal through industrious Amwayi, who nailed a powerful header, beating Burundi custodian Rugumandiye Ivan from Oliver Kiprop’s cross.
However, on the half-hour mark, Eric Nzohabonayo pulled a goal back for the visitors as the scoreline remained the same until the break.
Ulinzi was the more rejuvenated side in the second half, with the trio of captain Evans Amuoka, Waruru and Amwayi keeping the Burundi defence on toes.
Increased tempo
Amwayi could have scored his second goal of the day in the 60th minute, just after Mustafa Francis’ effort was saved by keeper Francis Ocheing, but his shot was blocked by Bukuru Hassani, resulting into a fruitless corner.
But as the Salim Ali boys’ increased the tempo, pressing hard and creating many clear cut chances, Burundi succumbed to pressure and it’s in the 80th minute that Amuoka sealed the victory with a clinical header from Mulinge Ndetto’s throw-in.
Speaking after the match, Salim Ali heaped praise on his boys but urged them to remain focused ahead of tomorrow’s clash against Rwanda.
“In the first half, we didn’t play very well, but I want to thank my strikers for a job well done. That’s now behind us and since we’ve a tough match on Monday we must remain focused,’’ said Ali.
Even though, his counterpart, Ndayishiniye Prudence conceded defeat, he said Ulinzi’s physical tactics worked against his charges.
“Ulinzi were more physical and we seemed to be exhausted. We didn’t make any dangerous raids on their back-line. But I hope things will be different when we meet Uganda,’’ said Prudence.
In men’s basketball, Kenya’s Ulinzi Warriors beat Rwanda 73-72 in a thrilling encounter at Kasarani Gymnasium.
Mike Tanui recorded the highest points, after scoring 25 baskets, thirteen more than Neston Manzi of Rwanda.
The games take a break today and resume on monday.
By RODGERS ESHITEMI, The Standard
