The Malkia Strikers’ return to the Olympics served off to a displeasing loss but one that raised interest in Chumba’s skills.
Kenya women’s volleyball side launched their Tokyo Olympics campaign with a displeasing loss to a more experienced, Japan. The Malkia Strikers last participated in the Olympics at the Sydney 2000 Summer Olympics and Athens 2004 Summer Olympics where they emerged 11th on both occasions.
This edition of the Tokyo 2020 Summer Olympics was a long-awaited come back for the African Women representatives.
It was not all smiles for the Kenya women’s volleyball team after losing their opening match against the host, Japan. Under the guidance of the head coach, Kumi Nakada, Japan made a clear statement that they match favorite after winning the first two sets 25-15 and 25-11.
The tables seemed to turn in the 3rd set when Kenya gained composure to take control of the game. Key player Chumba alone made almost half the points for Kenya in this set. The opposite went ahead to claim the match top scorer.
However, this performance form Kenya from was not enough to shake a more resilient and experienced Japan. For in the game you would this Kenya would take back one set but this was not what japan had in mind.
The main highlight of the game came in the 3rd set when Kenya exhibited the best performance with the match top scorer attacking the ball 11 times. One could think Japan had given the set away but the reverse was true.
It was a close set for Japan who back to lead 24-23 and it was at this point that Kenya had to kill the host’s set point but unfortunately Chumba put the ball in the net. Many athletes can relate to the devastation going through Kenya after this very last act. Match ended 3-0, 3rd set 25-23.
After that 3rd set performance, there is no doubt Kenya can perform better, and just like fellow Africans in Tunisia, we expect to see better exhibitions. Kenya faces Korea on Tuesday, 27th July in the upcoming preliminary round.
Better luck next time for The Malkia Strikers!
