South Coast Pirates ready to set sail against Mombasa RFC in KRU Championship showdown

South Coast Pirates RFC, partners and technical bench.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

The South Coast Pirates Rugby Football Club is gearing up for a thrilling clash against Mombasa RFC this Saturday at Seacrest Grounds in Diani.

Coming off an easy 24-0 walkover victory against Western Bulls in their season opener, the Pirates are set to prove their mettle in the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Championship.

Pirates coach Kevin Amiani, the mastermind behind the Pirates' resurgence, expressed his satisfaction with the team's preseason preparations.

"We had 12 weeks of pre-season; our aim was to create an injury-free, fit, and well-bonded team to compete," said Amiani.

"We've worked extensively on our set pieces, giving more time to our forwards coach, Brian Nyikuli, to ensure we have a well-oiled machine."

Amiani also highlighted the emergence of talented players during the offseason. "John Asega, Abdul Mwaleso, and Abdalla Mohammed have impressed the technical bench, earning promotions to the first team," he added.

These rising stars from the Pirates Academy are expected to bring fresh energy and skill to the squad.

Pirates new signings Mohammed Hajj being handed kit by Raymond Matiba of Safari Beach Hotel.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Looking ahead to the season, Coach Amiani outlined the team's objectives. "Our long-term goal is to remain competitive in the league, inspire the community, and attract more young players to rugby," he stated.

For the current season, the Pirates aim for a top-two finish, securing a home semi-final and ultimately winning promotion to the prestigious Kenya Cup.

"We believe our arsenal is ready for the big task," Amiani affirmed, anticipating a challenging start against Western Bulls. The coach highlighted the team's ambition to earn promotion and face tougher competition in the top tier of Kenyan rugby.

In terms of squad changes, the Pirates have made strategic signings to bolster their ranks. New additions include Mohamed Hajj, James Ainea, Kelly Akengo, Brighton Omondi, Sospeter Rofino, and Mikey Odhiambo. While reinforcing the squad, the Pirates opted to retain their entire previous team, ensuring continuity and cohesion.

The technical bench, led by Head Coach Kevin Amiani, featured Brian Nyikuli as the Forwards Coach, John Carlos as the Strength and Conditioning Coach, Robert Magande as the Team Manager, and Lindah Rabuogo as the Physio. Brian Mwenje took on the role of Media Liaison, Diani Heri became the Nutritionist, and Suleiman Mohamed served as the Analyst.

With a well-rounded team, a mix of seasoned players and promising talents, and a coaching staff with a clear vision, the South Coast Pirates are poised for a successful campaign in the KRU Championship, eyeing a path to Kenya Cup glory. The anticipation is palpable as the Pirates prepare to take on Mombasa RFC in what promises to be a riveting encounter at Seacrest Grounds.