USIU-A's Sylvester Wanjawa and James Muthi in action with Nerry Owino of Parklands SC on Sunday/ CHARLENE MALWA Parklands Sports Club and USIU-A shared a 1-1 draw in their Kenya Hockey Union Premier League clash on Sunday—but both coaches left wanting more.
Parklands coach Fredrick Masibo praised his team’s early pressure, which paid off when Hilarry Otieno scored in the 6th minute. But he wasn’t happy with how the match ended.
“We started well and created good chances,” Masibo said. “But we lacked the finishing touch. That’s what cost us the win.”
USIU-A responded through Danson Wabwire in the 13th minute, and the game settled into a tight, cautious battle. Neither side could convert their penalty corners. Goalkeepers on both ends stayed sharp to keep the score level.
Masibo said the draw would serve as motivation.
“This was a big improvement from last season’s result,” he noted. “But we now have to be more ruthless. Our next games will be harder.”
USIU-A coach John Kabuu shared similar frustration. “We expected them to come at us fast, and they did,” he said. “We did well to respond quickly, but we didn’t take our chances.”
Kabuu was encouraged by his team’s control in midfield but wants sharper execution in the final third.
“The conversion rate is not good enough,” he added. “We’ll address that immediately.”
Both coaches will focus on attacking drills and quicker transitions as they prepare for tougher fixtures ahead.
In the women’s league, Lakers Ladies outplayed USIU-A Ladies 3-0. Coach Kabu said they struggled in attack and promised tactical adjustments. “We need to be more direct going forward,” he said.
Strathmore University Women beat Mombasa Sports Club 3-0, while Kenyatta University Ladies drew 0-0 with the coast-based side.
In the men’s division, Daikyo Heroes edged Strathmore University 1-0 in a tight contest.
