Strathmore University's head coach, Meshack Senge, has tempered his praise following a 9-0 victory over Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in their 2019 season opener at Nairobi's City Park. The Scorpions' commanding performance saw JKUAT manage zero shots on target during the 60-minute match.
JKUAT's strategy of adopting an open style backfired, contrasting with their 2-0 win over Strathmore in the 2018 season finale when they employed a more defensive approach. Senge acknowledged the team's execution, stating, "Their intentions did not materialize. Instead, it worked to our advantage in addition to our reaction on and off the ball." He praised the squad's tactical discipline and goal-scoring efficiency.
Despite the emphatic result, Senge cautioned against premature conclusions. "From today's match I can say the pre-season input has come to fruition, but I'll be patient until the third or fourth match to note the pattern," he said. The coach attributed the win to structured play and player cohesion.
JKUAT coach Samuel Oungo cited inexperience as a factor, noting his team's "feeling of inferiority" and unfamiliarity with the astro turf surface. "This is just the first match, and I know the girls will rise to the occasion as we go on," he added.
Scorpions' Gilly Okumu scored five goals, while Ruth Adhiambo netted a hat trick and Yvonne Mwangi added a goal. Senge also confirmed the signing of three new players, including forward-cum-midfielder Cynthia Achieng and forward Angela Wema, to strengthen the squad.
