Kenya Harlequin head coach Patrice Agunda believes improved attacking execution will be key when they face Ngong Road rivals Impala Saracens in a crucial Kenya Cup clash at Impala Grounds on Saturday.
The much-anticipated Ngong Road derby comes at a decisive stage of the season, with both sides struggling for consistency. Quins sit eighth on the log with 12 points, while Impala are 10th with the same tally, and the result could prove decisive in the fight to avoid relegation with only two pool fixtures remaining.
Agunda’s side head into the match on the back of three consecutive defeats, including a disappointing 30-23 loss to Daystar Falcons last weekend. They had earlier fallen 48-13 to champions Kabras Sugar and narrowly lost 22-17 to Menengai Oilers.
Despite the poor run of results, Agunda remains encouraged by his team’s performances and believes small improvements could turn their fortunes around.
“From a performance perspective, the boys are headed in the right direction. Case in point, last week against Daystar, we had several opportunities to score when we were in their 22, but left empty-handed. This week, we are looking at polishing our attack moves and phase play to ensure we leave with maximum points,” said Agunda.
The former Kenya Simbas and Shujaa international emphasised the importance of dominance in the set-pieces and physical exchanges in what is expected to be a tightly contested derby.
“A solid scrum and lineout give a good foundation to launch attacks and defend well, and it will be vital. We have worked on it in training this week,” he noted.
Agunda also warned that weather conditions could influence the outcome, with rain and wet conditions forecast for the weekend likely to affect handling and tactical decisions.
Despite their position in the standings, the Quins coach insists the race for the playoffs remains open. Only seven points separate his side from the final playoff position currently held by Strathmore Leos, leaving qualification still within reach.
“There is a lot to play for. I am not panicking about the position. I believe the teams around us will drop points and there will be more twists and turns,” Agunda said.
Quins will conclude their regular season campaign with matches against Kisumu RFC and Strathmore Leos, fixtures that could ultimately determine whether they extend their stay in the Kenya Cup or face the threat of relegation.
