Musingu Scorpions Send Strong Message in KSSSA Opener Against Mbiruri
Musingu High School launched their quest for the national football title in emphatic fashion with a dominant 5-1 victory over Moi High School Mbiruri as the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) National Term Two games kicked off on Tuesday across venues in Kakamega County.
The Western region champions wasted no time asserting their dominance in Group A, making full use of home advantage at the Mumias Sports Complex to deliver a punishing welcome to national debutants Mbiruri from the Eastern region.
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Roared on by thousands of fans, Musingu looked every bit the contenders they hope to be in this year’s competition.
Coach Mwinamo Hails Dream Start
An elated Musingu coach Brendan Mwinamo could not hide his satisfaction after the comprehensive win, saying it was the best possible way to begin the championships.
“It’s a good start for us because the outcome of the first game is very important because it not only enhances chances of a better performance, but also boosts players confidence,” Mwinamo said in an interview with Standard.
The Scorpions, who last lifted the national title in 1984, began the match on the front foot and were rewarded when Kevin Manan broke the deadlock in the 22nd minute.
Mbiruri, however, showed fighting spirit and leveled matters through Devon Odhiambo in the 30th minute. But their celebrations were short-lived as Austin Oluoch restored Musingu’s lead just two minutes later.
Star forward Marvin Ashiundu added a third in the 36th minute, giving the home side a 3-1 lead heading into the break.
Second-Half Domination Seals the Win
The second half was all about Musingu’s dominance. Ashiundu completed his brace in the 65th minute, showing clinical finishing that underlined his attacking prowess.
Substitute Shaban Quimba put the icing on the cake with a well-taken goal in the 78th minute to make it 5-1.
Musingu sent a clear warning to their rivals, demonstrating intent and form in front of a passionate home crowd. Mbiruri despite showing early promise, were ultimately outclassed but will hope to recover in their upcoming fixtures.
In the other Group A encounter, tournament newcomers Agai Mixed Secondary School turned heads with a stunning 9-1 demolition of Garissa High School from the North Eastern region.
Brian Peter was the standout performer, netting a superb hat-trick. Moses Otieno, Abdul Owino, and Rodgers Onyango each helped themselves to a brace in a dazzling team performance.
Champions Stunned, Group B Wide Open
Defending champions Highway Secondary School got off to a rocky start in Group B, falling 1-3 to a well-drilled St Joseph’s High School Kitale side.
Collins Mwalati opened the scoring for St Joseph’s from the penalty spot after a foul in the box. Instine Simiyu then struck twice in the second half to put the game beyond reach, with Samuel Mwanzi netting Highway’s lone goal.
The result puts the champions on the back foot as Group B promises to be a tight contest.
Tuesday Fixtures – Kickoff: 2.00 PM
Kirangari vs Highway Secondary – Kakamega School (Outer Field)
Serani vs JOBO – Mukumu Boys
Garissa High vs Scorpions Musingu – Kakamega School (Rugby Field)
Agai Mixed vs Moi Mbiruri – Kakamega School (Mabao Stadium)