Defending champions General Service Unit and Kenya Prisons are the latest entrants to the Kenya Volleyball Federation League Men’s playoffs after an epic encounter yesterday.

GSU coach David Kirwa said that his team was ready for a playoff battle but warned that the competition will be tight. 

 “It is a good feeling to go into the playoffs in a good way but will we know that it will not be easy. However, despite the stiff competition, we are ready to face our rivals. As the defending champions our priority is to fight and keep the trophy on our shelf,” he stated.

The coach’s sentiments were shared by team captain Nicholas Lagat.

“We started a bit slow but soon our rhythm came together and I am happy we won and qualified for playoffs. It is not done yet, next week we have another crucial assignment against three other strong sides. We will work hard to defend our title. I can say this season, the morale of the players has been up even though the competition was evidently stronger.” 

GSU finished the regular season in style after trouncing Kenya Prisons 3-0 (25-22/25-17/25-16) in a game that exhibited great determination. GSU will now be out to defend their title in a fierce battle pitting four teams.

Tough ride

The other two teams in the mix are league leaders Kenya Ports Authority and Trail Blazers Volleyball Club. Volleyball analysts predict it will be a tough ride in to be played in two weeks’ time.

Coach David Lungaho of the Kenya Prisons side pointed at the outer court saying it frustrated their quest to win over rivals but gave no excuse for his loss. 

“We basically gave up when the opponents were leading and so working on our mental game is key, especially in the upcoming games. I know we will make some adjustments because we want to carry the title,” said the former Malkia Strikers coach. 

Similarly, Blazers won 3-0 against their opponents Rift Valley Prisons and the same result was witnessed in the game against Kenya Ports Authority and Prisons Central where the Dockers won.