Kenya Pipeline edge KCB to lift Kenya Cup title, complete domestic double

After surrendering the opening set 25-21, Pipeline bounced back in style to dominate the second set 25-12 before taking the third 25-21. KCB dug deep to claim the fourth set 25-23 and force a decider. However, Pipeline proved stronger in the moments that mattered most, closing out the fifth set 15-11 to seal the title.

The win crowned Pipeline’s impressive domestic campaign after already lifting the National League title earlier this season. They reached the final by defeating DCI while KCB booked their place after seeing off Kenya Prisons.

For outside hitter Sokoiyo Marion, the triumph was the reward for months of hard work rather than payback for last year’s defeat to KCB in the final.

“We are so happy to win this title. We have really been putting in the hard work and improving our skills because we wanted to become number one and bring this trophy home. Last year we tried but failed, but this year we came prepared and focused,” Marion said.

Marion was quick to dismiss suggestions that the victory was fuelled by revenge.

“It wasn’t revenge. We had already beaten KCB in the league. We just wanted this trophy. Now the challenge is to keep working because retaining it will be even harder.”

Head coach Geoffrey Omondi admitted his side had to dig deep against a spirited KCB squad, describing the final as one of the toughest matches his team has played this season.

“KCB really gave us a run for our money. They pushed themselves and almost beat us, but we held on. This is the sweetest victory we’ve had this season.”

Omondi credited Pipeline’s improvement in attack, reception and setting for the turnaround over the past year and said winning both the league and cup was the perfect reward for his players’ consistency.

While celebrating the domestic double, the coach revealed his sights are already set beyond Kenya.

“I’m gunning for the Africa Club Championship. I’m yet to win that trophy, and that is my next goal.”

Veronica Adhiambo Oluoch, who joined Pipeline to strengthen the squad, said lifting the trophy made the move worthwhile and believes the victory has given her confidence ahead of national team duty.

Pipeline may have finished the domestic season on top, but Omondi’s message after the celebrations made it clear the job is far from over.

With the league and Kenya Cup safely in the cabinet, the club’s attention now turns to the Africa Club Championship, where the newly crowned double winners will be chasing the only major title still missing from their season.