KCB set up Kenya Cup final showdown against Pipeline

National league champions KPC became the first team to book their place in Sunday's final with a commanding straight-sets victory over the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), winning 3-0 (29-27, 25-17, 25-17).

KPC head coach Geoffrey Omondi praised his side's disciplined execution, saying tactical awareness and experience proved decisive against a resilient DCI outfit.

"We are happy because we played well and executed everything we had planned," Omondi said.

"DCI gave us a good contest, but our experience helped us edge them for the 3-0 victory. We are ready for whoever we face in the final because our goal is to win this trophy."

The second semi-final produced a thrilling contest as KCB survived a stern challenge from Kenya Prisons to claim a hard-fought 3-2 victory (25-23, 22-25, 25-19, 22-25, 15-12) and keep their title defence alive.

Kenya Prisons assistant coach Pius Mabonga credited his players for pushing the defending champions to five sets but admitted minor tactical adjustments and the return of an experienced player disrupted the team's rhythm.

"It was a good match. We started well and matched them throughout, but experience made the difference," Mabonga said.

"Our experienced player, Meldinah Sande, had not trained with the team for some time, so reintegrating her affected our combinations. Even so, we played well and are now focused on the third-place play-off against DCI."

KCB head coach Japheth Munala described the victory as a significant morale boost after his side had lost their previous two meetings against Kenya Prisons.

"It was a tough match, but I thank God we came through. Prisons had beaten us twice in a row, so this win means a lot as defending champions," Munala said.

Looking ahead to the final, Munala acknowledged the quality of their long-time rivals but backed his team to retain the title.

"KPC are a strong side and we know each other well. They are strong, but so are we. We will prepare well and fight to defend our title."

The Kenya Cup final will be played on Sunday at the Kasarani Indoor Arena, with the first serve scheduled for 2:00 p.m.

The men's final will see Chema Volleyball Club take on GSU, after beating Kenya Prisons and KPA respectively, in the semis.

Additional reporting by Derrick Otieno.