Kisumu RFC ready for Kenya Cup return after beefing up squad with 10 new signings
Rugby
By
Washington Onyango
| Jan 09, 2025
After a rocky start to the 2024-2025 Kenya Cup season, bottom-placed Kisumu RFC is determined to turn their fortunes around with the addition of ten new signings.
The lakeside team, which has conceded a staggering 295 points in three matches, is set to resume their campaign this weekend as the Kenya Cup returns after the festive break.
Kisumu RFC endured a difficult start, suffering heavy defeats to Menengai Oilers (76-13), KCB (82-3), and reigning champions Kabras Sugar, who handed them a record-breaking 137-7 loss in their final match of 2024.
However, the club has gone all out in the transfer market to bolster their squad, with vice chairman Eliazaro Ouma optimistic that the new signings will breathe fresh energy into the team.
"We have gone hard in the transfer market to acquire quality players whose additions we hope will strengthen the team further," Ouma said.
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"We will take one game at a time and ensure we make the region proud. I'd like to encourage our fan base to turn out in large numbers and give the team the much-needed morale."
Kisumu RFC has secured five players on loan from Kabras Sugar, including Gibson Perez, Warren Kamadi, Duncan Shigali, Branton Lusisa, and Darrell Omondi.
The squad has also welcomed the return of Habil Malika, a former Kisumu player who previously announced his exit after one season.
Adding to their defensive options, the club signed locks Michael Olale from Western Bulls and Robert Awich, a free agent who has also played for Nakuru RFC.
Awich brings invaluable experience to the team. Felix Omondi, a prop from Nakuru RFC, joins Kisumu on loan, while David Williams, a National Sevens Circuit winner, returns to the club after a loan spell at Kenya Harlequin.
"These players will bring much-needed energy and stability to our team. Their additions give us hope that we can improve our position in the Kenya Cup standings and avoid relegation," Ouma added.
Kisumu RFC's return to action will be marked by an emotional encounter against fellow strugglers South Coast Pirates in a match dubbed the Fidel Odinga Memorial Cup.
The game, to be played at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Mamboleo, honours their late chairman, Fidel Makarios Castro Odinga, who passed away 10 years ago.
"The tournament is an opportunity to celebrate Fidel Odinga's legacy. He transformed Kisumu RFC into a consistent top performer and a regional powerhouse," Ouma noted.
The day-long event has attracted notable sponsors, including Kisumu Women Representative Ruth Odinga, Silas Jakakimba Foundation, Stanley Ogejo of Ogejo, Omboto And Kijala Advocates, KRU Director Commercial Services Harriet Okatch, Raymond Omollo Foundation, and businessman Ken Angwen of Da Place.
The action will kick off at 11 am, with Homabay RFC taking on Siaya RFC in the curtain-raiser before Kisumu RFC battles Diani-based South Coast Pirates for the coveted Fidel Odinga Memorial Cup.
Ouma expressed his gratitude to the sponsors and called on fans to rally behind the team.
"We are grateful to our sponsors for their support. I encourage our fans to come out in large numbers to honour Fidel's memory and cheer the team to victory," said Ouma.
The stakes are high for Kisumu RFC, as both they and South Coast Pirates have yet to win a match this season. The clash presents a chance for Kisumu to finally get points on the board and build momentum for the second half of the season.
Despite their struggles, Ouma remains optimistic about the team's potential.
"We are focused on improving our defensive structures and attacking strategy. These are the areas we need to address to compete at this level."
Across the league, other top clubs like KCB, Mwamba RFC, and Kabras Sugar have also bolstered their squads during the transfer window, further highlighting the competitive nature of the Kenya Cup.
For Kisumu RFC, however, the immediate priority is securing a morale-boosting victory this weekend. With a revamped team and the backing of their loyal fans, they are ready to rewrite their story and reclaim their pride on the rugby field.