![[PHOTOS] Kenya Pipeline Volleyball team secures victory over KDF](https://cdn.radioafrica.digital/image/2026/03/65c3d7de-2b16-4a41-9776-f20565bbf920.jpeg)
Kenya Pipeline middle blocker Gladys Ekaru/ HANDOUT
Kenya Prisons and defending champions Kenya Pipeline will renew their rivalry when they clash in the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Women’s National League best-of-three final series at Kasarani.
The two sides will face off in the opening match of the final on July 17 at 2 pm at the Kasarani Indoor Arena, with subsequent matches scheduled for July 18 and 19 if required.
Prisons booked their place in the championship decider after edging KCB 3-2 in a thrilling semi-final battle, while Pipeline secured an early final ticket after sweeping past Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) 2-0 in their last-four series.
Prisons staged a comeback against KCB after losing Game One 3-1 on Friday, responding with a similar 3-1 victory in Game Two before producing a five-set thriller in the decisive encounter.
The wardresses won 25-21, 20-25, 17-25, 25-13, 15-12 in the decider, with coach Josp Barasa crediting immense preparation and execution for their dramatic victory over the bankers. “It took proper planning to beat KCB because they are a very good side. We prepared well, and the players executed our game plan. Now our focus shifts to Pipeline,” said Barasa.
Prisons will now attempt to end Pipeline’s recent dominance and reclaim the league title they last won in 2021. However, Barasa acknowledges the challenge posed by an experienced Oilers side that has enjoyed another impressive season.
“Pipeline are a good and competitive side, thanks to their participation in the African Clubs Championship and the Rwanda Genocide Volleyball tournament. We played them in the regular league, and they beat us, but the playoffs are a different ball game altogether, and we hope to be a better side,” he added.
Pipeline head into the final high on confidence after a successful continental campaign that saw them claim bronze at the CAVB Women’s African Club Championship in Cairo before lifting the Rwanda Genocide Memorial Volleyball Tournament title. Captain Gladys Ekaru believes the Oilers’ experience and discipline will be crucial as they seek to retain the national crown.
“We have to dominate all aspects of our play, including serving, receiving and blocking. We are very ready for the challenge ahead,” said Ekaru.
The Malkia Strikers assistant captain and Olympian added that consistency at the highest level requires commitment beyond match days, highlighting training, focus and discipline as key pillars of success.
“I usually ensure I train well, stay focused to avoid external pressures and maintain a balanced diet,” said the 26-year-old, who previously competed in athletics before switching to volleyball.
Both finalists have already secured qualification for next year’s African Women’s Club Championship after finishing among the top two teams in the league standings, leaving the KVF title as the final prize at stake.
Pipeline will be seeking back-to-back league crowns, while Prisons are chasing a record-extending 10th title as the two giants renew their rivalry on the biggest stage.
