Riverside Pumped Up For Omogi Cup Fourth Successive Title
19th December 2018
The reigning champions will be out to retain their crown in the five day tournament as 24 teams receive donated kit from England
- Meanwhile, organisers of the grassroots tournament have included a women’s competition for the first time in the event that has turned into a hunting ground for football scouts in the area
- Players and supporters of English Premier League sides, Southampton FC and Everton FC as well as EFL Championship outfit, Hull City FC donated the gear as part of the Kits For Africa initiative
- According to tournament director, Dan Oyugi, the women’s final will feature the top teams in the two pools playing under the round robin format
KISUMU, Kenya- Riverside FC's defence of the annual Omogi Cup football tournament that kicks off at Kadiju Primary School Grounds in Kisumu Town East Constituency this weekend received a shot on the arm on Wednesday when they received donated playing kit from England.
Meanwhile, organisers of the grassroots tournament have included a women’s competition for the first time in the event that has turned into a hunting ground for football scouts in the area.
Three time-champions Riverside, who are gunning for a fourth successive crown, tipped their new signings to propel them to the crown this year in the competition that culminates on Saturday (December 22).
"We lost some players who helped us to win the title last year but we have fresh talent from schools who have fit well into the team," Riverside captain, Fred Nyalik, told SportPesa News.
"We know it's going to be a tall order since everyone is out to challenge us but we will treat every match as a final," he underlined.
Riverside edged Kadiju FC 5-4 on post-match penalties after a 1-1 draw in normal time to lift the cup last year.
The team is among the 24 clubs from the region that received boxes of sports gear at Aloo Gumbi High School Grounds ahead of the tournament kick-off.
Players and supporters of English Premier League sides, Southampton FC and Everton FC as well as EFL Championship outfit, Hull City FC donated the gear as part of the Kits For Africa initiative.
“The new uniforms have inspired us to stretch beyond our limits and any side eyeing our title should prepare for a tough battle,” Nyalik warned.
Thrilling action
The men’s competition has attracted 16 teams including Kadiju FC, Miwani FC, Buoye FC and Orongo FC who are looking forward to turn tables against the champions.
Others are Omungi FC, Kunya FC, Angola FC, Nyaimbo FC, Nyatege FC, Masawa FC, Chiga FC, Obino FC, Nyamoge FC, Bungu FC and Rweya FC.
Ayaro Stars FC, Victoria FC, Nyatege Queens FC, Rweya Queens FC, Renja FC, Kunya FC, Angola Starlets FC and Greenland FC are among the clubs that will field in the inaugural women’s competition.
According to tournament director, Dan Oyugi, the women’s final will feature the top teams in the two pools playing under the round robin format.
“The playing surface is okay despite the recent rains that have been pounding the town. The Kadiju pitch is well drained and levelled. We are in for thrilling action in the field with huge turn-out,” Oyugi added.
“We have engaged Football Kenya Federation referees who will officiate the matches. Winners will walk home with cash, kit, footballs among others,” he added.