Arch Bishop Njenga Girls and Mukumu Boys were crowned the Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom Western Regional champions after winning their final matches at Kanduyi Stadium in Bungoma County on Sunday.
Bishop Njenga beat Shinyalu Youth Sports 1-0 with Violet Wanyonyi netting the goal in the 49th minute.
Mukumu discovered their form in the second half to beat Lugari Blue Saints 2-0 with Brian Chala and Alvin Mang’eni scoring in the 69th and 79th minutes respectively.
En route to the finals Bishop Njenga beat Chelebei from Mt Elgon 3-1 in the semi finals while Shinyalu trounced Kingandole from Busia County 4-0 in the other semis.
Mukumu qualified for the finals after beating Emanani Muslim Academy 3-1 with Blue Saints dispatching Kapsokwony 3-2.
Bishop Njenga and Mukumu join Kapenguria Heroes, Tar Tar Girls, Mwingi Junior Academy, Ngakaa Talent Academy, Ombek Red Devils, Plateau Queens, Shimba Hills, Waa Girls and Al-Hayat FC which have already booked national slots.
Bishop Njenga coach Fred Serenge said the match was tough but he was happy with the results. ” We shall enhance our training so as to capture the national title and a ticket to London in April, 2018 for international training and mentorship camp.
Mukumu coach Patrick Fundia said his tactics paid off dividends in the second half. ” Our focus is now on the nationals. We have the ambition to shake hands with Victor Wanyama in London but after winning the national title,” he said.
The winners received a cash reward of Shs 200,000 each while the first runners-up will receive a cash reward of Sh100,000 each. At the grand finale, the winning team will walk away with Sh1 million each.
Safaricom has invested Sh100 million towards the program which includes Sh10m worth of prizes as well as funds for renovation of select community pitches through a legacy program.