Sharks are looking to hand Nairobi Water Queens their first defeat in eight seasons of the local league.
Ulinzi Sharks are battling to dethrone seven-time Kenya Handball Federation (KHF) women’s champions Nairobi Water Queens and for that, they would need to win all their remaining matches, including Saturday’s clash between the two.
The Yusuf Kipruto-coached side head to Saturday’s encounter against the Jack Ochieng– led holders ruing their missed chance to maintain a perfect run and dent Queens’ record in the first leg encounter.
In a match the military side led 17-12 in the first half, Ochieng’s charges came from behind to win 29-28 but Kipruto says they learned their lessons and are ready for payback.
“We have trained well and are ready for action. I have my full squad up for selection and that gives us the needed depth to handle a team like Nairobi Water Queens. Our defence failed us and we missed some clear chances at scoring but we have since worked on the shortcomings,” said Kipruto.
Sharks are fourth on the log but have played nine matches for eight wins, their only loss being to Queens. Meanwhile, the holders remain unbeaten after 11 outings to headline the standings at 22 points, four more than second-placed National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB).
The millers have played 12 matches for nine wins while Nanyuki are third at 17 points from 12 matches, having won eight, drew one and lost three. The four sides are likely to feature in the Super Cup as little movement in positions is expected as the regular season nears conclusion.
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Lynette Matheka, Journalist