SCHOOLS: Agoro Sare and Kisumu Day to renew rivalry at Nyanza Region finals

Phebian Otieno (left) of Agoro Sare in action against Kisumu Day's Elisha Otieno during the Nyanza Region finals.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

The stage is set for an exhilarating showdown as football boys' defending champions Agoro Sare High School renew their rivalry with Kisumu Day High School at the Nyanza Region Secondary School Term Two games from 2pm.

The regional games, which kickoff on Wednesday at Kisii School, promise high-stakes action and fierce competition in football, volleyball, netball, basketball 3x3, racket games and rugby Sevens.

Agoro Sare, the Homa Bay giants, have been drawn into Group A alongside rivals Kisumu Day.

The group also features new Migori County champions Kodero Obara and Ongicha from Kisii, making it a challenging pool for all teams.

This preliminary match is highly anticipated, as it serves as a repeat of last year’s thrilling final where Agoro Sare edged out Kisumu Day 7-6 in penalties to qualify for the national finals for the first time.

Agoro Sare's head coach, Fredrick Akuku, is confident, yet cautious about their prospects.

"We know the challenge that lies ahead, especially after a tough Homa Bay County finals where we had to dig deep to retain our title," Akuku said.

"Our focus is on executing our game plan with precision. We have been working on our defensive solidity and quick transitions to catch our opponents off-guard. The goal is to return to the national finals, and we believe we have the squad to achieve that."

Akuku’s tactical approach revolves around a solid defensive foundation coupled with rapid counter-attacks.

His emphasis on teamwork and discipline has been the cornerstone of Agoro Sare’s recent successes.

"We are aware that every team in this tournament is strong, but our preparation and resilience will be key. We are aiming to make history again by defending our regional title and performing well at the nationals," he added.

In Group B, the competition is equally fierce with Sameta from Kisii, Ambira from Siaya, Matutu from Nyamira, and Tonga from Homa Bay set to clash. Each team will be looking to make their mark and advance to the later stages of the tournament.

Nyanza Region Secondary School Term Two games

FOOTBALL BOYS

Group A - Agoro Sare, Kodero Obara, Kisumu Day, Ongicha
Group B - Sameta, Ambira, Matutu, Tonga

FOOTBALL GIRLS

Group A - Lwak, Alara, Migori Education Center, Nyabisase
Group B - Moremani, Geke, Nyakach, Hawinga