After thumping St Peter’s Nyaisa 6-0 to win the Safaricom Chapa Dimba Nyamira county title, Nyaguku FC captain Paul Omeka has vowed to replicate the same performance at inter-county championships.
“We had a great game and hope to replicate our performance in the upcoming matches. To our fans, we promise not to let you down. We kindly ask for your continued support as we aim for the regional championship," he said.
Omeka hailed Safaricom for sponsoring the tournament.
He added: “This truly embodies the spirit of supporting young people and helping them showcase their talents. It feels amazing to be named the county champions.”
Kevin Mayore scored a hat-trick while Kevin Orina notched a brace. Emmanuel Bongoye wrapped up the scores for Nyaguku FC in the final that was played at Kiendege Secondary School.
In the girls’ category, Rigoma Starlets upset Gekomoni Girls 3-2 to claim the county title.
Seventeen-year-old Sharon Kemuma opened the scores for Rigoma in the 27th minute. However, Linet Achieng struck a superb equaliser nine minutes before the break.
Sharon Mokeira regained Rigoma's lead four minutes into the second half as Kimuma completed her brace in the 54th minute to put the winners 3-1 up.
Achieng put Gekomoni back into the game nine minutes to time but their spirited comeback come a cropper as Rigoma managed to hold onto their 3-2 advantage.
"This year's Chapa Dimba has truly been tough, starting right from the group stages. Nevertheless, we have managed. I am delighted that we have finally emerged as the county champions, securing a prize of Sh75,000," said Rigoma Starlets head coach Nixon Obiero.
"This victory serves as a significant source of motivation for our girls, and as we prepare for the upcoming playoffs next week, our goal remains to win and advance to the regional finals."
In Kisumu county, Obunga FC shocked former champions Manyatta 4-3 in a penalty shootout to lift the title. The teams drew 1-1 in regulation time.
In the girl’s category, Nyakach Girls, popularly known as Plateau Queens, beat Manyatta Ladies 2-1 to win the title. Winners received Sh75, 000 with runners-up going home with Sh30, 000.
Top scorers, best goalkeepers, and players of the tournament received Sh10,000. Additionally, they will get a TVET scholarship to pursue a course of their choice courtesy of the Safaricom Foundation.
A total of 530 teams participated in the Nyanza region grassroots games, comprising 412 boys’ teams and 118 girls’ teams, starting at the ward level. Ends
