GSU eye redemption as KVF League resumes

The General Service Unit (GSU) are eyeing redemption when the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) men’s league resumes on Thursday at the Kasarani Indoor Arena.

The defending champions had a poor start, failing to secure a win in their two matches during the first leg, but Tarus exuded confidence about bouncing back in the second leg.

GSU were stunned 3-2 (21-25, 25-22, 25-21, 24-26, 15-5) by KAPU in a dramatic comeback match in their season opener at Kasarani. This was followed by a straight-sets loss to the Trailblazers in their second fixture.

“We still have a long way to go; the two losses don’t mean we are in the danger zone. I’m not worried because eight teams will progress to the last eight, and we will be in the mix,” Tarus told Citizen Digital.

“The team is quite in good shape, and I’m confident we will redeem ourselves,” Tarus added.

Tarus has dealt with uncontrolled circumstances, as some first-team players have been undergoing training, which has toned down their training and play to the required top-level intensity.

Although they have had inadequate training time, Tarus insisted that his team is ready to roar.

“We are doing better; the progress is good, and I believe we shall regain our mojo.”

With two matches lined up for the paramilitary side, Tarus says they have no option but to win to gain the momentum needed to advance to the last eight.

“Now with a full squad at my disposal, I’m looking forward to claiming wins in the matches lined up for us. That will give us the momentum we need for the campaign,” he added.

The reigning champions will be boosted by the return of Hudson Kipchumba, who had previously joined Chema before the season served off in November.

Kipchumba is joined by three players from the Kenya Airport Police Unit (KAPU): outside hitter Felix Ouma, setter Abraham Wabwire, and hard-hitting middle blocker Douglas Cherop.

The quartet is expected to inject new energy and balance into the paramilitary side.

The trio impressed during the previous season and is expected to inject depth, competition, and tactical balance into GSU’s rotations ahead of the league restart.

GSU will serve off their first match against National Youth Service on Friday before clashing with Kenya Defence Forces in a high-octane match on Sunday.