SCHOOLS: It's showtime as Mombasa, Kwale games begin

Action between St. Anthony's Boys Kitale and Serani Boys in last year's national games. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

There is rising hope from little-known schools of pulling off surprises as Mombasa and Kwale County secondary schools Term Two games start on Thursday.

Giants have been put on notice. Interestingly, the underdogs have predicted they will upset the giants when the right time comes.

In Mombasa, Coast region boys football giants Serani will start their title defence against Miritini Complex in a pool B match at Jomvu grounds.

Coached by Swaleh 'Sunda' Abdalla, Serani, who have set their eyes on the national title, start as prematch favourites.

In an interview, Abdalla said he is not worried about their opponents who also include Khadija and St Charles Lwanga.

"We have enough arsenal for our opponents. I hope the boys will do the work," said Abdalla.

Serani, who have consistently represented Coast region at the national games, have talented players, some of whom have been featuring for Bandari youth in Mombasa league.

"Serani School has been working closely with Bandari Youth to tap and expose talent at the school," said the coach.

Serani should, however, expect stiff challenge from former champions Tononoka who went back to the drawing board after losing to Serani in last year's championships.

Tononoka start their title chase in a Pool A tie against Mombasa Forces Academy. Marimani and Miritini Secondary School are also in Pool A.

In girls' football, Mwakirunge face Star of the Sea in pool A, while Hassan Joho School face St Charles Lwanga in pool B.

In Kwale, officials have warned teams against fielding ineligible players.