SCHOOLS: Maseno School renew rivalry with St Mary's Yala in rugby

Maseno School scrum half Winston Ngulu (right) in action against St Mary's Yala.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Maseno School and St. Mary's School Yala are poised to reignite their longstanding rivalry as Nyanza Region Secondary School Term One games begin on Wednesday.

In what promises to be an action-packed showcase of youthful talent and teamwork, this year’s four-day event will be co-hosted by Kisumu Day, Kisumu Boys, and Kisumu Girls High Schools.

On Wednesday, all eyes are set on the gripping confrontations on the rugby fields, where giants are poised for a clash of titans.

Maseno School rugby players warm up.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Leading the charge in the stories that will unfold is the riveting face-off between Kisumu County heavyweights Maseno School and St. Mary’s School Yala.

Seen as the highlight preliminary match in the rugby 15s Group B, the encounter is not just a game, but a renewal of a storied rivalry steeped in history and passion.

Maseno School in action against St Mary's Yala.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

The Maseno School team, under the guidance of head coach Steve Oluoch, is in fierce preparation mode. Oluoch is confident in his squad's abilities and strategy.

"Our preparations have been both rigorous and strategic. We understand the magnitude of the games ahead, and the boys are in high spirits. Our aim is to not just participate but to dominate the group stages and move forward with momentum," he said.

“We respect our opponents, but we also believe in our proven capability to topple any match-ups. Each game will be a step towards our ultimate goal," added the English Literature teacher.

St Mary's Yala players during a training session.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

In contrast, Yala’s coach, Kenneth Mukok, fresh from their rugby 7s side’s remarkable run in the East Africa games last year, is equally bullish about their prospects.

"Last year's achievements with the rugby 7s was just the beginning," said Mukok.

"We have a team that’s hungry for success and capable of making it to the nationals. Our strength lies in our unity and the unwavering spirit that defines Yala. We're ready to display that same caliber of play that took us to the East Africa games."

St Mary's School Yala go through the paces.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Group A, however, is far from overshadowed, headlined by defending champions Kisii School. They’re set to battle against Homa Bay giants Agoro Sare, alongside the robust teams of Nyabondo and Anjego, in what promises to be another set of thrilling match-ups.

Nyanza Region Rugby 15s pools

Group A: Kisii School, Agoro Sare, Anjego, Nyabondo

Group B: Maseno, Yala, Gekando, Cardinal Otunga