Champions Ulinzi focus on KPL after Military Games triumph

Kenya Defense Forces Football Club, Ulinzi Stars, outclassed its East African counterparts to retain the gold medal in men football at the 11th East African Community Military Games and Cultural Events in Bujumbura, Burundi.

In a late Sunday afternoon match on Sunday at the Prince Louis Rwagasore Stadium, Ulinzi’s Boniface Onyango netted the sole goal against Tanzania at the 19th minute, securing Kenya’s place in East Africa’s sporting prowess.

Head coach Benjamin Nyangweso lauded his charges for their resilience in defending the title despite lack of fair play in the tournament.

“The players did well. We have won the gold without losing a match despite the poor officiating by the referees. Our experience from the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) helped us a lot to overcome,” told Nyangweso.

He is already strategising on how to replicate the military games form in the KPL on resumption.

“We will first tell our fans and Kenyans in general to appreciate the gold we bring, and promise them something extra. We want to fight for local glory now that we are shining beyond the borders,” the former club’s player charged.

Ulinzi are currently fourth on the league table after playing 20 matches, with 32 points behind leaders Gor Mahia, Sofapaka and Posta Rangers.

-title campaign- 

Ulinzi began the title campaign on the opening day of the games by beating the hosts Burundi 1-0.  On Thursday, they drew 1-1 with rivals Uganda before Sunday’s finale.

Tanzania had won 2-1 against Burundi, before registering a 1-1 draw in their clash with Uganda.

Ulinzi’s win took Kenya’s medal tally in the regional games to four,  after winning two gold in both individual and team titles in Men’s 10km cross country and a gold in women volleyball.

Tanzania is second with three gold medals, two from men’s cross country race and one in basketball. Curtains at the Bunjumbura competition come down on Tuesday, with Kenya expecting to lift the overall title.