St Anthony Boys Kitale, the reigning National KSSSA ball games champions, were trounced 2-0 by their arch rivals St Joseph’s Boys Kitale. To that end, St Joseph’s were declared the champions of Trans Nzoia County and thus booked a slot to represent the county in the Rift Valley Schools regional games slated for later this month in Bomet.
The encounter was played in Kipkeikei Secondary on Monday, 8th July 2024 where there was expected stiff competition. A moment of tussle was in the 28th minute when Athman Shungu snatched across to score St Joseph’s early lead. In spite of the second halve’s spirited performance by St Anthony Kitale, who tried to level the chances, a defensive error allowed Rickson Simiyu to increase St Joseph’s lead in the 68th minute. The game was abandoned in the 87th minute as the crowd stormed the pitch – a new date would not be required since St Joseph’s have already been declared the champions.
A year ago, a feeling of trepidation engulfed St Anthony’s Boys when their former head, Cosmas Nabungolo, was transferred to head St Joseph’s.
St Anthony Boys Kitale appealed against the outcome of Under-19 school games with St Joseph’s Boys Kitale, citing opponents’ fielding of players above 19 years in their team. It is alleged that 98% of St Joseph’s players were above 19 years who should not have played in these games meant for under 19. Therefore, the appeal was rooted as one calling for integrity and transparency within KSSSA and a call for accountability amongst opponents.
“Integrity and transparency within KSSSA are foundational elements which we have over and again passionately championed for. It is, therefore sad to see actions that put it into disrepute,” the St Anthony’s appeal reads.
In the appeal, he confirms their conviction in fair play and the principles that ensure a level field is maintained in youth sports despite the adversity they faced in the match.