Rugby: Kenya Harlequin register first win in Kenya Cup contest

Billy Omondi of Impala with ball is tackled by Jacob Okumba of Kenya Harlequins looking on is Jasper Ochen of Kenya Harlequins during the Christie 7s Contest at the RFUEA grounds in Nairobi.PHOTO:WILBERFORCE OKWIRI

Kenya Harlequin ended a four-match losing streak in the Kenya Cup with a 25-15 win against Menengai Oilers at the RFUEA ground yesterday.

The result propelled Quins from the bottom of the standings while Oilers remain winless in three matches having suffered back-to-back losses against Homeboyz and KCB before yesterday's contest. 

"We have been working on our defense the entire week and I am impressed with the progress the team has made," said Quins coach Dominique Habimana.

Quins' thirst for a first win of the campaign was evident as they took a second-minute lead through Herman Humwa. The Kenya Sevens forward would have his try converted by Lyle Asiligwa to give the hosts a 7-0 advantage. 

Oilers' first foray into the Quins' territory earned them a penalty which Abutali Wesonga slotted home to reduce the deficit for Gibson Weru's charges.

Asiligwa then added the extras to Brighton Mwalawa's try to extend Quins lead. After surviving a series of attacks, Quins found their third try with Humwa returning to the score sheet after getting on the end of Asiligwa's well weighted cross field kick.

Oilers were presented with an opportunity to register their first try but they failed to capitalise on Asiligwa's mistake with Ian Mwau knocking on seven metres from the try line. They would then redeem themselves as Davis Nyaundi set up loose forward Aziz Annan who crossed the whitewash for an unconverted try.

A handling error by Oilers in their half proved costly as Quins were awarded a penalty which Asiligwa scored to send his side 22-8 up at half-time.

Asiligwa missed a penalty five minutes into the second half before Ian Omoke made a try saving tackle on Jacob Okumba to deny Quins a fourth try.

Asiligwa made ammends for his earlier penalty miss as he split the posts with a three-pointer to take the match beyond Oilers' reach.