Impala will seek an improved display at the Dala Sevens this weekend following an underwhelming opener at the Prinsloo Sevens tournament, the opening leg of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit.
The Ngong’ Road outfit failed to reach the quarter-finals of the Prinsloo Sevens last weekend, losing all three of their preliminary matches: 28–0 to Oilers, 25–5 to Nakuru, and 12–5 to Blak Blad.
In the classification matches, they edged Catholic Monks 14–10 before falling 22–5 to Strathmore Leos to finish in 11th place.
Impala Sevens coach Anthony Nyandigisi believes the hard lessons from Nakuru have given the squad a clear understanding of the areas requiring urgent attention heading into Kisumu.
“Prinsloo gave us valuable lessons, and the players have responded positively in training this week. We know the quality of opposition we will face at the Dala 7s, but we are equally confident in our ability to compete,” said Nyandigisi.
“Our focus has been on improving our execution, discipline, and consistency over the full 14 minutes. If we play to our potential, we believe we can produce much better results this weekend.”
The tactician will also be encouraged by the continued integration of several new signings who made their Impala debuts during the opening leg in Nakuru.
Leon Onduso, Ted Adrian, Jordie Imbali, Modechai Metternich, Elvis Omondi, Evan Asena, Opiyo Stephen, and Conrad Hinga are all expected to play increasingly influential roles as they settle into the squad.
Club captain Benjamin Madaga insisted that the players have put the disappointment of the opening leg behind them and are eager to prove themselves in Kisumu.
“The mood in camp is very positive. We know we did not achieve the results we wanted in Nakuru, but everyone has taken responsibility and worked hard during the week,” said Madaga.
“The Dala 7s presents us with another opportunity to show our character. We have welcomed several new players into the squad, and they continue to adapt well. As a team, we are focused on putting together improved performances and earning the points that will move us up the standings.”
Impala RFC face a stern challenge in Pool A, where they have been drawn alongside Prinsloo winners KCB, MMUST and Zetech Oaks.
Pool B promises captivating clashes as Kenya Harlequin lock horns with Blak Blad, Menengai Oilers and Mombasa Sports Club. In Pool C, Nondescripts will battle it out with Daystar Falcons, Mwamba and hosts Kisumu, while Pool D sets the stage for an intense fight for quarter-final spots featuring Kabras Sugar, Nakuru, Strathmore Leos and Embu.
Meanwhile, the club’s women’s team, the Impala Roans, will also be in action in Kisumu as they look to build on a promising start to the National Women’s Sevens Circuit.
The Roans head into the second leg sitting fourth in the standings with 15 points following the opening tournament in Nakuru.
