Chapa Dimba Na Safaricom All-Stars boys’ team lost their first friendly match against Reus Deportiu of Spain conceding 5-3 goals in regulation time.
Reus Deportiu, a local youth side playing in the second division of La Liga tournament, scored two goals through penalties, two set-pieces and a counter-attack to seal their win. The All-Star boys scored their first set piece, few minutes to the end of first half through John Atem Kato of The Saints (Western) and two more goals in the second half through Benjamin Otieno of Manyatta United (Nyanza) and Benson Githinji of Shimanzi Youth (Coast).
“The game was interesting and tactical. I have never played against such an organized team before and this was a great experience for me. We were able to score goals and that is really motivating considering this was our first match as a team. We look forward to a great experience at the end of our 10 days here,” said John Atem Kato, an All-Star player from The Saints.
In the other friendlies, The All-Star girls drew against Reus Deportiu ladies scoring 3-3 in regulation time. Ivonne Ogada of Ndhiwa Queens (Nyanza) scored a brace before Catherine Aringo of Kwale Starlets (Coast) scored the third goal putting the girls ahead in the first half. Reus Deportiu ladies came into the second half with vigor scoring three goals in a span of 20 minutes to end the match in a 3-3 draw.
“The team played well considering their diversity and experience. They all come from different teams and are in the process of bonding. They are picking up the lessons from the trainings very well and if this trend continues, they are going to be great players. We certainly hope they go back home with inspiring experiences and learnings,” said Ismael Rodriguez, La Liga coach attached to the All-Stars.
The All-Stars will today have an opportunity to tour the cosmopolitan city of Spain, Barcelona known for its art and architecture as part of their 10-days schedule. Other activities in the schedule involve; two friendly matches, trainings and a live match