This archive report was first published on 26 November 2019.
On November 26, 2019, Lolomarik FC made history by winning the 'Betika na Community' grassroots football tournament in Meru County.
The team, based in Timau, Buuri Sub-County, Meru County, secured a 1-0 victory over Meru University in the final match at Kinoru Stadium.
Captain Peter Njoroge scored the winning goal in the 78th minute, guiding Lolomarik FC to a memorable victory.
The team had previously beaten Giaki, MKU, and Meru Shark by identical 1-0 scorelines to qualify for the final.
According to Captain Njoroge, the tournament provided valuable preparation for their league matches, saying, "We have had the best preparation for our matches through this tournament."
Lolomarik FC took home a cash prize of Sh200,000, while runners-up Meru University pocketed Sh75,000.
Meru Queens also emerged victorious in the women's competition, beating Shake Stars to win the title and a cash prize of Sh100,000.
A total of 20 teams, comprising 16 men's teams and four women's teams, participated in the tournament, which was sponsored by betting company Betika.
The tournament aimed to nurture sports talent in the region, and Betika's head of commercial department, John Mbatia, expressed satisfaction with the level of competition.
"We will continue investing in the communities and will keep on supplying them with uniforms and other sporting gear," Mbatia said.
Meru County Sports Executive Koome Miriti and local leaders who sponsored teams to the tournament pledged to cooperate with other partners to develop talent in sports and the arts.
