Defending champions KU held by UoE as national university games kick off
Defending champions Kenyatta University (KU) were held to a goalless draw by hosts University of Eldoret (UoE) in the opening men’s football match of the 10th Kenya University Sports Federation (KUSF) National University Games in Eldoret.
The closely fought encounter saw both sides miss clear scoring chances, but the result underlined the title ambitions of the two teams as the week-long championships got underway at the UoE grounds.
UoE captain Jeff Oluoch said the hosts were encouraged by the result against the reigning champions.
“We knew KU are a strong side and defending champions. Playing at home gave us confidence. The draw feels like a win for us,” said Oluoch, adding that the team handled the pressure well on home turf.
KU skipper Austin Tandasi expressed disappointment at missed opportunities but remained confident of bouncing back.
“We created about three good chances but failed to score, and that cost us. The draw puts some pressure on us, but our preparations were good and we believe we will win our next matches,” Tandasi said.
KU and UoE are pooled alongside Kisii University and the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA).
In men’s Rugby 7s, UoE made an emphatic start by defeating Koitalel Samoei University 19–5, while KU edged United States International University (USIU) in another opening fixture played at the UoE grounds.
Moi University’s Arsonists overwhelmed Koitalel Samoei University 31–0, while KU’s Rugby 7s side, Blak Blad, beat UoE 14–5 in a tightly contested match.
A total of 21 universities are competing in the games, with more than 2,500 student-athletes taking part in 20 disciplines, including football, athletics, Rugby 7s, volleyball, basketball, handball, hockey, karate, chess, swimming, table tennis, tennis and netball. Athletics events begin tomorrow.
KUSF president Kibet Rono said universities had overcome financial challenges to stage the championships.
“We recently competed at the World University Games in Germany and won five medals. We are optimistic of stronger performances in future international competitions,” Rono said, noting that the UoE facilities serve as a major training base for athletes from the North Rift region.
University of Eldoret Vice Chancellor Prof Thomas Cheruiyot and Meru University of Science and Technology Vice Chancellor Prof Romanus Odhiambo said university games remain a key part of academic life and national cohesion.
“Supporting sports is not optional. Universities must also seek partnerships with government, corporate organisations and alumni to sustain sporting programmes,” Prof Odhiambo said.
The championships run until Saturday, December 20.
