Kenya national Roll Ball men and women’s teams late arrival did little to deter their hunger for success as they picked up easy wins in their respective opening matches of the World Cup that started on Friday in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
The men’s side coached by Jared Onyango played their first match hours after arrival and had been further delayed by technical hitch at the airport.
But, on the pitch, they proved too good for Senegal as goals by captain Moses Atenya, George Mburu, Allan Amuma and Albert Omware sealed a 4-0 win.
Atenya and Mburu settled the first half nerves with goals in the 12th and 18th minute respectively. Amuma added the third goal in the 30th minute before Omware finished off matters in the 42nd minute.
Kenya (three points) lies second in Group F behind Sri Lanka who have four points but have a game in hand.
"We knew we would defeat Senegal from the previous match against them but they have really improved and even changed some of the players. As a team we will always trust in God and are doing it for the country with an attitude of a lion," Atenya said.
He remains confident that they will win their remaining fixtures and top the group that also has Denmark and Phillipines.
In the women’s category, Kenya kicked off the defence of her title in style with a 13-0 whitewash of Thailand. The massive goal difference ensures that they sit atop of Group A tied on points with Thailand although they have played a game less.
England and Indonesia, both on one point complete the pool.
Head coach Jacob Nyaudo is optimistic of a repeat performance that will guarantee them of safe passage into the knockout stages of the competition.
Results
Men Group F Kenya 4 Senegal 0, Sri Lanka 9 Phillipines 0, Sri Lanka 2 Senegal 2, Philippines v Denmark (Walkover given to Denmark).
Fixtures, (Sunday): Kenya v Denmark (10.30 a.m), Senegal v Philippines (2.30 p.m.); Monday: Kenya v Sri Lanka (9 a.m.)
Women
Group A: Kenya 13 Thailand 0, England Indonesia 0, Thailand v Indonesia (Walkover given to Thailand).
Fixtures, (Sunday) Kenya v Indonesia (5.30 p.m.); Monday: Kenya v England (5.30 p.m).
