The race for Kenya Cup playoffs and survival continues this weekend as the league reaches matchday seven, with several key clashes set to shape the table.
The standout fixture sees Nondies travel to Ruaraka to face in-form KCB, a contest expected to test the white shirts’ inconsistent season. Nondies currently sit sixth on the log with 14 points, while KCB are third with 30 points.
Coach Moses Wanyaga acknowledged the challenge ahead but is confident his side can overturn past lapses in concentration. “The key will be in the forwards. We know KCB are robust in the setpiece, and we must match them,” Wanyaga said. He added, “One of our major issues has been blowing late leads. We must manage the game better and avoid lapses of concentration.”
Nondies will rely on Elisha Koronya, Charles Omondi, Hillary Baraza, and Boniface Amimo in the forwards, while Ian Mumbwani, Maxwell Omondi, and Tony Fidens will pull the strings in the backline.
KCB coach Andrew Amonde has named a strong 23-man squad, featuring Patrick Ouko, Kenya Simbas internationals Andy Cole, Omollo Wilhite Mususi, and Sheldon Kahi in the forwards, with Brian Wahinya, Bob Muhati, Eugene Omondi, and Levi Amunga leading the backs.
Elsewhere, league leaders and reigning champions Kabras, who are on a 44-match unbeaten run, welcome Quins to Kakamega. Last season’s runners-up, Menengai Oilers, host Blak Blad in Nakuru, while Impala face a tricky assignment against Strathmore Leos. Masinde Muliro University meet Kisumu RFC in Kakamega, and Nakuru RFC travel to Athi River to face Daystar Falcons.
Matches are scheduled to kick off at 4 pm.
Following this round, the league will pause for two weeks to accommodate the Enterprise Cup and the World Sevens Series leg at Nyayo Stadium, before resuming on February 21.
With playoff positioning and relegation battles both hanging in the balance, this weekend promises high-stakes rugby across the country.
by WILLIAM NJUGUNA
