Nemostars had earlier hinted that there is no such thing like a ‘tough pool’ at the 33rd edition of the Africa Volleyball Club Championship in Sousse Tunisia.
The two time national league winners lost 3-0 to three time winners and last year’s first runners Espérance de Tunis.
There opponents in the second tie are GSU of Kenya who also fell 3-0 to Ahly Benghazi from Libya. “Our style of play is familiar because we are from the same region,” said Nemostars’ centre blocker Christopher Ajena.
The last time the two sides met was during the 2012 Eldoret tournaments then GSU came out on top 3-1. “They (GSU) play in a more competitive environment than us which gives them an edge, but I must warn that they shouldn’t take us for granted,” Eric Ojamuge added his voice to Ajena’s.
Nemostars will hope to minimize on the mistakes that cost them the game against Esperance though it was later reveled that the Tunisians were just too strong for the Ugandans. GSU coach Gideon Taurus says his team will draw confidence as the tournaments progresses starting with today’s game.
“I don’t underestimate them, but all we only need to do is believe in ourselves,” said Taurus. “It is also important that we study our rivals so we can plan well against them,” Taurus added.
Tarus is banking on centre Cornelius Lagat, Abraham Rotich, libero Abraham Rotich and setter Nicholas Rotich, all of whom played a vital role in the team’s title triumph last season.
Selected Thursday results
Nemostars 0-3 Esperance
GSU 0-3 Ahly Benghazi
Today’s pool C fixtures
Ahly Benghazi vs Port
Esperance vs Cement
GSU vs Nemostars
Tomorrow’s group C fixtures
Nemostars vs Ahly Benghazi
Cement vs GSU
Port vs Esperance
