Quins upbeat ahead of Oilers test as Kenya Cup resumes today

KCB's Francis Mwita (centre) is tackled by Harlequin's Michael Habachi (left) and Mark Mongo during a recent Kenya Cup match at the RFUEA Ground. [Jonah Onyango, Standard]

Kenya Harlequin will be seeking to bounce back to winning ways when they travel to Nakuru today to face Menengai Oilers at ASK Showground.

The 2021/22 Kenya Cup season resumes today with five matches scheduled to take place in five venues across the country after a festive break.

The eight-time Kenya Cup champions lost to Homeboyz in their last match before the league went for the break but captain Elisha Gitonga believes they are still a force to reckon.

Speaking to the Standard Sports, Gitonga said they are confident of securing a win after rectifying all their mistakes witnessed last time out.

“The team is looking sharp after the festive season. We started training immediately after the Christmas break, so mentally and physically we are,” he said.

Though Gitonga is wary of Oilers’ threat, he says Quins are determined to end their unbeaten run.

“Well, we’ve had two derbies, (Nondies and Impala) which are always a battle regardless of the team’s current form. And Yes, Oilers is another big game for us, one reason being we’ve not beaten them in Nakuru. So, it’s definitely a challenge we are looking to complete this weekend regardless of their form,” added Gitonga

Harlequin are currently fourth on the log with 13 points, seven points behind Oilers who are tied on 20 points with league leaders Kabras Sugar.

Oilers and Kabras are the only teams still enjoying an unbeaten run this season ahead of round five fixtures.

The early kick off clash will see Blak Blad tackle Mwamba in a match slated for KCB Sports Club at 1pm. They will then pave way for the fixture between defending champions KCB and Impala Saracens at 3pm.

At Madaraka Grounds, Strathmore will welcome MMUST RFC as Homeboyz take on Nakuru RFC at Jamhuri Grounds.