Focus on Rai derby as Kabras and Oilers clash

Javan Otieno (center) of Nakuru RFC fights for possession against Kisumu RFC players during their Kenya Cup clash at Nakuru Athletics Club, Nakuru City, on February 15, 2025. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

The Rai derby between Menengai Oilers and Kabras Sugar is set to be the highlight of this weekend's Kenya Cup action as the battle for a home semi-final and potential hosting rights for the final intensify.

With only two rounds left in the regular season, every point counts, and both sides will be eager to stake their claim as title contenders when they meet at the ASK Showground in Nakuru.

Menengai Oilers, currently third with 41 points, are looking to keep their chances of finishing in the top two alive. A win over the defending champions would put them in a strong position to secure a home semi-final, a crucial advantage in the knockout stage.

However, Kabras Sugar, who have won all nine of their matches this season, are determined to maintain their unbeaten record.

Sitting just one point behind league leaders KCB with 44 points, they know that a win could see them reclaim the top spot, depending on the outcome of KCB's match against Impala.

The clash between Oilers and Kabras has become one of the fiercest rivalries in recent Kenya Cup history.

Oilers will rely on their strong home form and the backing of their fans to push for a crucial victory, while Kabras, known for their dominance in set-pieces and expansive play, will be aiming to maintain their winning momentum as the play-offs approach.

League leaders KCB will be looking to tighten their grip at the top when they host Impala at The Den. With 45 points and an unbeaten record, the bankers are in pole position to secure home advantage for the final, provided they keep winning.

Their superior point difference of +360 has been key in keeping them ahead of Kabras, and they will be determined to maintain that advantage.

Impala, on the other hand, are seventh with 15 points and have little to play for in terms of play-off qualification, but they could still pose a challenge.

At the bottom of the table, Nakuru RFC and Mwamba are set for a crucial relegation battle at Nakuru Athletic Club. Nakuru, sitting 11th with nine points, are in a must-win situation if they are to avoid dropping to the second tier.

Mwamba, just one point ahead in 10th place, are also in danger and cannot afford to lose this encounter. The stakes could not be higher, as the loser of this match could find themselves facing relegation alongside South Coast Pirates, who are currently last with eight points.

South Coast Pirates face a tough away fixture against Nondies, who are fourth with 29 points and looking to strengthen their play-off position.

A loss for Pirates would all but confirm their relegation unless other results go their way. Kenya Harlequin, currently fifth with 27 points, take on Kisumu RFC, who are ninth with 12 points.

Quins will be aiming to secure their place in the play-offs, while Kisumu still have a slim chance of avoiding the drop.

Meanwhile, KU Blak Blad, sixth with 21 points, will host eighth-placed Strathmore Leos in a mid-table clash that could have minor implications on the final standings.

With the race for the play-offs and the battle for survival intensifying, this weekend's fixtures are set to deliver thrilling action.

The Rai derby between Kabras and Oilers will set the tone for what promises to be a decisive round in the Kenya Cup season.