NCPB’s strategic style troubles Tanzanian team at 2023 regional championships

National Cereals & Produce Board (NCPB) is enjoying a successful run at the East and Central Africa Regional Handball Championships held at Nyayo Stadium Courts.

The NCPB ladies’ team triumphed yesterday, defeating Tanzania’s JKT 40-25 in a Ladies Pool B clash. The Kenyan giants secured a 23-12 lead at half-time, with Naomi Muyoka, Annette Baraza, and Joan Akinyi combining for 24 field goals. The match offered plenty of running and tackles, thrilling the Handball Court fans.

NCPB, having previously overcome Rwanda 35-29 in a gripping duel on Sunday, utilized their territorial advantage against JKT, causing considerable trouble for the visitors.

The team displayed remarkable spirit during restarts and defensive plays, with at least 10 outfield players from Cereals contributing to the opponents’ goal box, making it challenging for JKT to anticipate threats.
For JKT, Zawadi Juma led with seven goals, supported by Jonisia Edwards (5) and Merida John (4). \

However, the visiting side’s primary issue lay in their inability to capitalize on ball possession, allowing the Kenyans to defend effectively against the Tanzanians’ attacks.

In another game, General Service Unit (GSU) narrowly secured a 29-28 victory against Uganda’s Prisons in a Men’s Pool B fixture. The competitive match resembled a final, witnessing constant shifts in scores. GSU led 15-09 at half time, but the Ugandans, after strategic changes, nearly caught up to the hosts.

Fernwick Opicho of GSU led the game with seven goals, backed by Philip Oscar with five goals. On the opposing side, Ibrahim Kongo and Gilbert Ojok each scored six, while Solomon Okwir managed five goals.
Meanwhile in Pool B men’s Championship, Police of Rwanda emerged victorious after beating Equity Bank 29-28.