Zetech University Titans once again fell victim to Strathmore University Blades, losing narrowly 70-65 in a closely contested Zuku University Basketball League (ZUBL) National League Men opener on Friday.

 

In what was a repeat of last season’s final where Titans lost by a two-point margin of 64-62, the opening fixture of the 2015-2016 was an interesting clash, with Zetech hoping to end their poor record against the Blades, whom proved superior once again.

 

The Blades kicked off the tie with winning intentions, and despite fights from the Titans, the blades ended the 1st quarter on a high, leading 17-13.

 

Zetech dusted themselves up from the first quarter and took Strathmore head on in the second quarter, and eventually took the lead with a three point caution, going for the breather up 36-33.

 

On resumption, defending champions Strathmore returned more determined, forcing Zetech to commit technical fouls and thus benefiting from the mistakes to regain their lead and at the end of the third quarter, it was a neck to neck battle with the tie only separated by a point with Strathmore leading 48-47.

 

In the fourth and final quarter, Strathmore upped their urgency and stood firmly guarded in defense, and their strategy paid off at the final whistle, outwitting Zetech 70-65 to start the season strongly.

 

Strathmore University entered the Zuku Basketball league for the first time last year and were crowned champions.

 

Story by hivisasa.com