Both sides have won their first two matches in the four-team play-offs, with holders Pipeline winning by three sets to one against both DCI and Kenya Prisons.

On the contrary, KCB beat Prisons 3-2 while they thrashed DCI by straight sets in their second match.

Pipeline head coach Paul Gitau is beaming with confidence that his side has what it takes to take charge of the tie, with the quality he has in his side.

“It will be a tough match but I am definitely winning,” the confident Gitau told Capital Sports.

He added; “If you look at the level of some of my players, you cannot compare. If they clock five, then we are good to go. If they don’t click well, then maybe the game can be decided on five sets. But I am sure they will click and we will win this game 3-1.”

Pipeline beat the bankers last season to clinch the title, and the latter will be seeking for revenge when they clash again.

Head coach Japheth Munala says his team is well prepared and they will be going all out for the title.

“We are going for the Cup. No two ways about it. We have played really well, though some few areas haven’t worked but I believe we are in good shape. We are hopeful that we will carry the day,” Munala said.

Players to watch

For Pipeline, their go-to player has been Pamela Adhiambo. During Tuesday evening’s match against Prisons, when it seemed they were being pushed to a five-set match, the attacker, last season’s play-offs MVP put in a shift.

She will once again be the main girl for the Oilers as they seek a consecutive title.

Another player who will be key for Pipeline is middle blocker Triza Atuka. The team’s assistant captain has been crucial for the team during the regular season and has also proven her worth in the play-offs.

For the bankers, with skipper Edith Wisa struggling for fitness after recovering from injury, Mercy Moim is expected to carry the points in attack.
Another player that will be crucial for the bankers will be libero Lincy Jeruto. With Pipeline’s strong serves and attacks, Jeruto’s role will be crucial if KCB are to sustain the onslaught from the defending champions.