Rugby: Akala calls for patience as Kabras Sugar seeks to end six-year Kenya Cup draught

Kabras Sugar's Teddy Akala (left) in action against Strathmore University during Kenya Cup semifinal played in Kakamega.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Kabras Sugar’s top try-scorer Teddy Akala has rallied his teammates to remain calm ahead of their Kenya Cup final match against Menengai Oilers on March 12.

Kabras Sugar Rugby Club have the opportunity to end their six-year drought when they host Menengai Oilers in the 2021-2022 Kenya Cup final at Kakamega Showground in Kakamega, on Saturday.

The sugar men qualified for their seventh consecutive Kenya Cup final last Saturday after knocking out Strathmore Leos 29-9 in the semifinals to book a date with Oilers.

Kabras will now face Oilers for the first time in the finals, hoping to end their losing curse at the finals, which has always come at the hands of KCB.

The sugar millers have lost in five finals against KCB (2015, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2021). Their only championship crown was in 2016, when they played a different opponent, Impala Saracens, who have since been relegated.

Speaking to Standard Sports, Akala said Oilers did them no favours in eliminating their tormentors, KCB.

Akala who has scored six tries this season said they’re facing a tough opponent in Oilers.

“It is not going to be an easy ride to glory. Oilers did us no favours despite many seeing KCB as a stronger opponent. Oilers gave us a hard time during the regular season and we expect a tougher final. We had planned to face either KCB or Oilers and we now have to dig deep.”

“This has been one of my best years of playing rugby. Dedication and hard work has seen me emerge as the top try scorer and I am thankful to teamwork and support from fellow players.”

“It is amazing to reach the finals in my first full season with Kabras,” said the former Western Bulls player.

Akala, however, believes it is time Kabras finally wins the Kenya Cup title after missing out on four consecutive occasions.

“It has been a painful journey for Kabras, losing four times to KCB. This is our year and I believe we will finally win it if we play according to our set goals and tactics. We have home ground advantage and fans to cheer us,” said Akala.

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