Okoth returns as Oilers tackle Mwamba in Kenya Cup action
Rugby
By
Washington Onyango
| Dec 09, 2023
Menengai Oilers have been boosted by the return of Kenya Sevens star John Okoth to the starting line up ahead of their Kenya Cup early-kick off match against Mamba today (Saturday) at Impala Grounds which will host a triple header.
Record champions Nondescripts are poised to host defending champions Kabras Sugar at the same venue from 2pm before Kenya Harlequin play Homeboyz in the final match of the day from 4pm.
Oilers will get the match day two action underway from 12pm with Gibson Weru chasing a second consecutive win of the 2023-2024 season.
The Nakuru-based rugby club got off to a perfect start in the new campaign last weekend when they came from 10-0 down to beat Homeboyz 43-13.
To strengthen the team, Weru has included Shujaa star Okoth to the starting lineup after missing the opening day. Beldad Ogeta, Alvin Khavoli and Davis Nyaundi will be in the back three.
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New signing Celestine Mboi starts for a second successive weekend into the front row, partnering Emmanuel Mulla and Vincent Mwikhali.
Ibrahim Ayoo captains the side from the second row where he partners Clinton Odhiambo as Jardon Abdon, Brian Ndirangu and former Kenya U20 international Samuel Were complete the front row.
Andrew Odero forms a half back partnership Abutwalib Wesonga.
"We had a good victory to start the season, perfect things that we have seen. Our set pieces were solid, our defence did well towards the end, and there was a good game. Now it's time to build on the win and improve even more," Weru said.
At the same time, Kabras Sugar head coach Carlos Katywa will be eyeing a second dominant win after kicking off the season with a monster 72-10 win over Kisumu RFC.
The Kenya Simbas assistant coach said despite the big margin victory, his team will be cautious against Nondescripts.
"We gained numerous insights against Kisumu last weekend. For us, there is a good deal of work. We missed plenty of opportunities, particularly in the first half, and the scoreboard does not show it. I believe there is room for improvement for the players," Katywa said.
Nondies on the other hand would be seeking redemption after a 45-8 loss to KCB in the Kenya Cup opener.
In the Lakeside City, Kisumu RFC will also be seeking to bounce back after the drubbing in Kakamega on the opening day. Kisumu welcome Nakuru at Jomo Kenyatta Stadium.
Last year's finalists KCB meanwhile will face off against Catholic Monks as Strathmore Leos entertain Blak Blad in the University Derby at Strathmore Grounds.