The second edition of the Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wa Raia Cup football tournament culminated at Iten Sports ground with Kapcherop Raiders emerging victorious.
The Raiders went home Sh1 million richer after they beat Kipsaina FC in penalties yesterday afternoon.
All indicators pointed to Kipsaina from Keiyo South carrying the day with a 1-0 lead but the Raiders from the Marakwet West equalised in the last minutes of the second half.
This led to a penalty shootout to determine the winners.
Raiders converted three penalties while Kipsaina wasted three.
Raiders team manager Alfred Koilege dedicated the victory to their fans promising the team would utilise the money prudently.
The tournament drew 80 teams from the county’s four constituencies; Marakwet West, Keiyo South, Marakwet East and Keiyo North.
The competition began at the village level after which they proceeded to the ward and sub-county levels.
The Finals: Kapcherop Raiders Vs Kipsaina FC.
The winners from each sub-county proceeded to semis and the grand finale.
The tournament sponsor Governor Wisely Rotich graced the match alongside Baringo Governor Benjamin Cheboi, Deputy Governor Prof. Grace Cheserek, West Pokot Deputy Governor Robert Komolle and his County Assembly Speaker Frederick Plimo.
There was also a representation from Nandi County led by Assembly Speaker Philemon Melly.
Sports personality McDonald Mariga and Football Kenya Federation (FKF) presidential candidate Hussein Mohammed attended.
Other guests included MP Adams Kipsanai, (Keiyo North) Timothy Kipchumba (Marakwet West) and County Women MP Caroline Ng’elechei and a host of MCAs.
Supporters flocked Iten Sports ground.
Governor Rotich said the intention of the tournament was to foster harmony and peaceful coexistence among the communities beside nurturing talent.
