KPA coach Mugabe cautious ahead of Equity Dumas semis clash

This was in Game Two of their quarterfinal playoff series at Makande Gymnasium, Mombasa.

Mugabe said his charges were able to recover from a slow start and execute their game plan, with their defensive display proving crucial in securing a comfortable victory and sealing the series.

“What was key was our defence, of course, and our teamwork. We had a bad start, but we managed to adjust and get back to what we had prepared for,” said Mugabe.

The Dockers, who had won Game One 77-61 in Nairobi, dominated the second encounter from start to finish to complete a 2-0 series sweep and book their place in the last four.

KPA will now face Equity Dumas in the semifinals, with the series scheduled to tip off on Wednesday at Nyayo Gymnasium in Nairobi.

Mugabe, however, expects a tougher challenge against the bankers and says his team must raise its level in the playoffs.

“I know it won’t be easy, but I believe we are prepared. We have time to fix a couple of things before Wednesday’s game, and I trust my team. I think we are ready,” he said.

“It’s just a matter of paying attention to the details and wanting to win the first game. We have to give Equity the respect they deserve, but it’s the playoffs, so we really have to step it up.”

KPA dominated all four quarters against Blades, taking the opening period 23-17 before producing a low-scoring 9-6 advantage in the second quarter to go into the break with a 32-23 lead.

The Dockers returned from halftime with renewed intensity, outscoring the visitors 28-10 in the third quarter before completing the emphatic victory with a 16-5 advantage in the final period.

In the other semifinal, defending champions Nairobi City Thunder will face Stanbic Shields, setting up two exciting matchups in the race for the league title.