Defending Nyanza region boys’ basketball champions Ambira started their title defence with a hard-fought 65-59 win over Kisii County’s Nyanchwa as the Nyanza region secondary schools Term One games began yesterday at Homa Bay School.
Nyanchwa won the first quarter 19-12 but lost the second 20-11 before winning the third 15-04. Ambira then bagged the fourth quarter 19-14.
Ambira coach Patrick Mboya praised Italy-bound point guard Javan Opiyo for guiding his team to victory. “This game could have gone either way. My boys showed character and that’s what created the difference. Nyanchwa is a good team and the standards of basketball are rising in Nyanza,” said Mboya.
Nyanchwa coach Kepher Mogire admitted his boys suffered from stage fright. “I believe the boys gave their best against the defending champions. I’m looking forward to the next game against Maseno,” said Mogire.
In another game, former champions Maseno School outclassed Oriwo Boys 68-34. Maseno coach Gordon Ogutu said his team is keen to reclaim their lost glory. Favourites Agoro Sare thrashed Nyamira’s Nyambaria Boys 90-22 while Maranda thumped Kanyawanga 51-38. In the girl’s category, Ngiya Girls narrowly defeated Itierio Girls 41-39 while Ototo defeated Koru 31-12.
Kisii school’s Nduru Boys had a dream debut in rugby 7’s beating St. Joseph’s Rapogi 38-0 while Gesure defeated Taranganya 7-0. Defending champions Maseno School beat Sawagongo 14-7 but succumbed 26-12 against Kisii School. Kisii School also had a narrow 10-7 win over Sawagongo.
