The opening match of the Rift Valley school games at the Bomet IAAF stadium saw an unexpected interruption when Kaplong Boys High School and Kabianga High School fans engaged in a stone-throwing confrontation.
The clash temporarily halted the football match between the two schools.
The disturbance was triggered by supporters of Kapsimbiri Secondary School, who were disqualified from the Bomet school games for fielding ineligible players.
Disgruntled by the jury’s decision, Kapsimbiri supporters expressed their frustration by backing Kaplong Boys’ opponents, Kabianga High School, in a bid to see them lose.
As the game approached the stoppage mark, with Kaplong Boys leading 1-0, tensions escalated.
Sensing a potential loss, Kapsimbiri supporters began throwing stones, prompting Kaplong fans to retaliate. The situation necessitated police intervention to restore order.
The match resumed after a brief interruption. Kaplong Boys capitalized on their momentum, with Brian Kiplangat breaking the deadlock in the 49th minute.
A well-placed pass from Jackson Saitoti enabled Kiplangat to unleash a powerful shot that eluded the Kabianga goalkeeper, securing Kaplong Boys’ victory.
“I am happy for the win; this game was not easy but my players employed all the tactics to win this match. My players are disciplined and followed the instructions that led to our victory,” said a delighted Kaplong Boys coach, Kiplangat Bett.
The Rift Valley school games saw more action in other preliminary matches. St Joseph Boys High School from Trans Nzoia defeated Thingithu of Laikipia 2-0, while Laiser Hill Academy from Kajiado overwhelmed Lelmokwo Boys High School of Nandi with a 7-0 victory.
In volleyball, national champions Andersen High School and Kesogon Girls High School showcased their dominance with impressive opening matches.
In the boys’ category, Andersen from Trans Nzoia triumphed over Isinya High School 3-0 (25-13, 25-10, 25-21). Former national and East Africa champions Cheptil High School from Nandi also secured a 3-0 victory against Naiwatoron High School from Samburu (25-13, 25-13, 25-13).
In the girls’ volleyball competitions, Kesogon Girls from Trans Nzoia defeated Loima Secondary School from Turkana 3-0 (25-4, 25-2, 25-1), signaling their intent to retain the regional title.
Hosts school Kaboson Girls High School utilized their home advantage to crush New Light School from Uasin Gishu 3-0.
Additionally, Nasokol Secondary School from West Pokot outplayed Kipngorom High School from Baringo with a 3-0 win (25-14, 25-9, 25-18).
