SCHOOLS: St Joseph Girls Kitale ready for Kombani as national football girls begin in Kisii

St Joseph Girls Kitale football team. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

St Joseph Girls Kitale, fondly known as JOGA, are brimming with confidence as they prepare for their debut in the Kenyan Secondary School Sports Association (KSSSA) National Term Two Games in football.

The Rift Valley champions are set to face off against Kombani Secondary School from the Coast in their opening Group A match, a game that head coach Eric Sichangi believes will set the tone for their campaign.

St Joseph Girls Kitale football players celebrate after a past win. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

JOGA, the pride of Trans Nzoia County, have been on a remarkable journey this season, culminating in their qualification for the national stage. Coach Sichangi is optimistic about his team's chances, emphasizing their blend of talent, determination, and tactical acumen.

"Our objective is clear: to progress from the group stages. We have prepared well, and the girls are ready to give their best. We respect our opponents, but we believe in our abilities," said Sichangi.

Group A, which JOGA find themselves in, is a challenging pool featuring Kombani Secondary, Nyanza Region champions Alara, and Dagoretti Mixed from Nairobi. Despite the formidable competition, Sichangi is confident that his team can navigate through the group and reach the knockout stages.

St Joseph Girls Kitale football team. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

"Each match will be tough, but our game plan focuses on strong defense and swift counter-attacks. We aim to control the midfield and utilize our wingers to create scoring opportunities," Sichangi explained.

In their match against Kombani, JOGA aims to dominate possession and exploit spaces on the flanks.

Sichangi's strategy revolves around a disciplined defensive line and a dynamic midfield trio that can break down the opposition's play and launch quick counter-attacks.

Key players to watch include their captain and central midfielders, who will be pivotal in orchestrating the team's play, and their speedy wingers, who have a knack for delivering precise crosses.

Flavian Khatenje in action for JOGA during the regionals. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

In the other Group A encounter, Alara will take on Dagoretti Mixed, promising another thrilling contest. Group B features defending champions Butere Girls, who will face Kibauni Secondary School from Eastern, alongside Nyakach Girls and Kinale, who will lock horns in the afternoon fixture.

As the national games kick off, all eyes will be on JOGA to see if they can live up to their reputation and secure a place in the knockout stages.

With a solid game plan and a determined squad, St Joseph Girls Kitale are set to make a memorable debut on the national stage, showcasing the growing talent in Rift Valley football.

KSSSA National Football Girls

Sunday’s Fixtures

Alara v Dagoretti Mixed

Kombani Sec v St. Joseph Girls Kitale

Nyakach v Kinale

Kibauni Sec v Butere Girls

Pools

Group A-Alara, Kombani Secondary, Dagoretti Mixed, St. Joseph

Group B-Nyakach, Kibauni Secondary, Kinale, Butere Girls