Ebwali and Madira are the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) Vihiga County champions after winning their respective finals on penalties at Mumboha Stadium.
In this year’s KSSSA games, Ebwali beat Chavakali High 4-2 in a penalty shootout to win the crown after a barren draw. The two teams had met at the group stage, where Ebwali won 3-0.
“We made key changes after the preliminaries but lack wasn’t on our side,” Hillary Muleri said.
Muleri said when it comes to penalties, It's anyone's game and they accept defeat.
“In 2023, we both lost at the sub-county level and I am happy we are back at our best and on course to national in Kisii and possibly East Africa Games in Uganda,” Muleri said.
“I can assure you if we meet Ebwali again at the regionals it will not be business usual,” he added.
Muleri said he has discovered Ebwali’s stronghold, claiming they over-depend on their skipper Austin Odongo. Ebwali head coach Francis Muhambe said his mission was to reach the regionals.
“Sub-county and county levels are quite tricky but at the regionals, heading to nationals, I know what to do,” Muhambe said.
In the girls’ category, Madira Soccer Assassins beat Ibubi 3-1 in spot kicks after a 1-1 draw in normal time to emerge winners.
Ibubi tactician Godfrey Omondi said they put up a good fight but lost against a good side.
Madira Girls also bagged the rugby Sevens title with Joy Owiti taking the Most Valuable Player honours. Madira qualified for regional in Bungoma alongside Kisangula, Kevehe and Idavaga Muslim Secondary School teams.
Vihiga Boys, Senende, Chavakali and Nyang’ori will be representing Vihiga County boys rugby at the regionals.
In boys' basketball, Chavakali, Ebunangwe, Vihiga, and Hobunaka will the county while defending champions Tigoi, Bunyore, Vokoli and St. Clares Maragoli will fly the county's flag in the girls' cadre.
St. Clare's Maragoli won the netball title followed by Mudavadi and Hobunaka.