KDF seek solace in fifth-place finish after playoffs heartache

Aliwa, who also doubles up as Wafalme Stars assistant coach, says preparations are in top gear to ensure they are ready for the classification matches set for this weekend.

He highlighted the importance of finishing in the best position possible noting it will help them get the best possible draw for the next season’s fixtures.

“We want to win and finish in fifth place. We have prepared well and we are going to give our best shot after last weekend’s disappointment,” said Aliwa.

The Soldiers were dethroned by Equity in the quarters last weekend and relegated to the classification matches in what is set be a woeful season after finishing out of top four.

The thrilling encounter saw Equity complete one of the most dramatic and epic comebacks as they narrowly edged the Aliwa’s men 3-2 in the deciding clash of the three best series quarterfinals.

The bankers had redeemed themselves in the second match to also win 3-2 after being put to the dagger in the first match which they lost 3-1.

While reflecting on the match, Aliwa acknowledged their weaknesses in the back court defence and services, noting they were working on them heading into the classification matches.

“Equity had a back court defence better than ours and our services were also poor. We have to improve in those areas if we are to finish in a better position,” noted Aliwa.

The former setter also hailed the competitiveness of the league noting that it has even become more difficult to win any match and you have to put in an impressive shift in all matches to get maximum points.

KDF face Nairobi Prisons on Saturday with the winner meeting either Kenya Forest Services (KFS) or Trail Blazer in the fifth-place play-off on Sunday at Nyayo Gymnasium.