KCB overcome Blak Blad to maintain unbeaten run in Kenya Cup

KCB's Elvis Olukusi in action against KU Blakblad. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

KCB RFC extended their unbeaten run in the Kenya Cup with a hard-fought 33-22 victory over a determined Blak Blad at the Kenya University grounds.

Despite the win, the Bankers, who are second on the table, missed an opportunity to reclaim the top spot on points difference as the Varsity boys delivered a spirited performance in a narrow defeat.

KCB started the match strongly, asserting dominance in the opening minutes. Captain Jacob Ojee set the tone, diving over for the first try of the game.

Moments later, Elvis Olukusi added two more tries in quick succession, establishing a commanding lead.

KCB forward Davis Chenge charges on during a Kenya Cup clash against KU Blakblad. [Washington Onyango,Standard]

With Elvis Namusasi successfully converting all three tries, KCB took a 21-5 advantage into halftime, with Blak Blad's Obukwa Ian scoring a solitary try for the hosts.

However, the second half saw Blak Blad return to the pitch with renewed determination. The hosts ramped up the pressure, scoring two quick tries through Gathu Kelvin and Steve Odhiambo, narrowing the gap to 21-15.

KCB regained their footing when substitute Austin Sikutwa made an immediate impact, intercepting a loose pass in their half and racing to the try line. Brian Whainya added the conversion, extending KCB's lead to 27-15.

Sikutwa struck again with his second try of the match, effectively sealing the victory. Blak Blad's Randy Wamah added a late try for the hosts, but it was not enough to overturn the deficit, with KCB securing a 33-22 win.

KCB Head Coach Oliver Mang'eni commended Blak Blad for their tenacity and acknowledged the challenge they posed.

"Blak Blad is always a tough opponent. They are among the few teams to have beaten us in the past two seasons, and even though we won today, conceding 22 points shows they are not a team to underestimate. But we got the win and now shift focus to the next game," Mang'eni remarked.

Looking ahead, Mang'eni expressed confidence in his squad's readiness as the season heats up. "The team is fit and prepared for any challenge as we work towards reclaiming the Kenya Cup title," he added.

KCB will now set their sights on their next match against Kenya Harlequins at the KCB Sports Club, where they will aim to maintain their perfect record and keep the pressure on the league leaders.