Kenya: Al Mujahidin Join KMTC Garissa as North Eastern Safaricom Sakata Best

Nairobi Star (Nairobi)

Muigai Kiguru

28 March 2011

Al Mujahidin emerged the North Eastern Safaricom Sakata Ball champions during the regional finals that were held at the Garissa Primary grounds on Saturday.

The champions beat Red Eagles 3-1 in the final that was decided on post match penalties after the duel ended in a goalless draw in regulation time.

In a match played under a scorching sun, Red Eagles controlled the match right from the start and their striker, Abdinasir Mohammed was twice denied by the wood work.

Cheered on by a huge crowd, Al Mujahiddin put in a spirited campaign as their goalkeeper Abubakar Mohammed was kept busy all afternoon by the constant threats advanced by their opponents.

To reach the final, Mujahiddin beat United Boys 5-4, also on post match penalties after the match had ended 0-0 in regulation time. Abdinasir was on target for Red Eagles as they dismissed Khalifa Fc in the other semi. Abdinasir went on to emerge the top scorer with … goals and in the process pocketed the Sh10, 000 cash price on offer. He was also named the most valuable player.

Al Mujahiddins’ stopper, Abubakar emerged the best goalkeeper and also ran away with Sh10, 000 cash award. Al Mujahiddin will now join KMTC Garissa in representing the region in the national finals set for Nairobi later in August. They became the six team to qualify as previous editions in Machakos and Nyeri saw Taqwa and Matuu (Eastern) and Euro Juniors and Soccer Sistas (Central) book their slots in the national finals fixtures. The team also received a Sh100, 000 cash award on offer while Eagles were got Sh50, 000 runners up award.

Earlier in the day, KMTC received Sh50, 000 after winning the girl’s event that was held earlier in the week while Garissa TTC B pocketed Sh 25, 000 runners up prize.

Hellen Nyawira emerged the top scorer with nine goals in two matches, Dorris Anyango was the most valuable player as Cynthia Jepkemei was named the best goalkeeper. Each of the players whole turned up for KMTC received a Sh5, 000 cash award.

The regional finals now move to the Rift Valley in a fortnight.

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