NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 8- AFC Leopards head coach Robert Matano is asking for more support from the Ingwe fraternity as the club enters crucial stage of the season where they aim a top five finish after an underwhelming season.

Matano believes that for the team to rise up from their current 13th slot, it needs concerted effort from the coaching team, officials, fans and sponsors.

“The coaches and a team manager cannot do the work alone. A team is made up of so much and the only way for us to rise is if we can work as a team. Everyone needs to play his role and I believe we can get to where we want,” Matano told Capital Sport.

He bases his argument with league leaders Gor Mahia whom he says show the best example in the country, despite sometimes facing similar problems to them.

“One thing I like about Gor Mahia is how united they are. The players are committed, work for each other and the fans also rally behind the team always. It is not just about when you are winning. You need your fans the most when you are losing,” Matano added.

“You don’t wait for success to happen then you come in. You have to be there at all times to build that success. A winning team starts straight from the training ground and with good support and motivation, we can rise,” Matano added.

The tactician who joined the team in July has called on the club’s fans to turn out in large numbers on Sunday when they travel to Kericho to take on a tricky Zoo Kericho side.

Only two points separate the two sides perched side by side in the standings at 12th and 13th.

AFC Leopards walk into the fixture still reverberating with the glee of a decent performance in the Mashemeji Derby and Matano has asked for a similar if not better performance from his charges.

“At this moment we are building up very well and the confidence the team has picked will be vital for us against Zoo. For us, we don’t talk much off the pitch. Our talking is on the pitch. We will go in there, give 100 percent effort and play to win,” Matano noted.

The last time the two sides met at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos on May 14, AFC Leopards survived by a hair’s breadth with a late equalizer to draw 1-1.

As they prepare to meet almost four months later, Zoo is ready for a tougher and more organized AFC Leopards but head coach Sammy Okoth has vowed his side will stop at nothing to go one better, win the game and push into the top 10.

“It will be tougher against AFC this time round because I think they are better than they were when we last met. They are more organized and play better football so it is going to be a very tough match. For us, we have to get the three points because winning such matches is a huge morale booster,” Okoth noted.

Prior to the international break, Zoo gave themselves a huge morale booster with a 4-2 spanking of Western Stima at their Kericho Green Stadium backyard, handing them a shot of confidence after suffering back-to-back losses, including a 6-0 thrashing from Mathare United.

Okoth laments that the international break disrupted their rhythm, but is quick to point out it will not be an excuse ahead of the tie.

“AFC is a big team yes, but we approach this game just like the rest. We don’t want to know about how they play or how good they are. We are better off concentrating on ourselves and achieving our target of three points,” Okoth said.

From the remaining 12 games of the season, Okoth has said his target will be to win only five of those matches and treat results in the remaining seven as a bonus.

The post Matano asks for more support as AFC aim top five appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 8- Homeboyz RFC will be out to cement their leadership at the top of the National Sevens Circuit this weekend with head coach Paul Murunga targeting another clean sweep of 22 points with a Main Cup conquest at the Kabeberi Sevens.

Homeboyz, the reigning circuit champions reached all the finals last season, winning three while losing a similar number and Murunga wants an improvement of the same this season.

The Deejays started their title defense on a high, winning one of the cups that evaded them last season after spanking Nakuru 17-7 to win the season-opening Driftwood Sevens in Mombasa last weekend.

“It was a morale boosting start because that is one of the finals we lost last season. The target this year is an improvement and that means going to the legs we failed to win and winning them. At least though, we should be able to get into all the finals,” Murunga told Capital Sport.

He expects a tough tournament at the Kabeberi Sevens especially having been pooled with hosts Mwamba RFC, Nondescript and guest side Daystar Falcons.

“We saw from Mombasa last weekend that in the game of sevens you cannot underrate anyone. We could easily see the so called small teams causing upsets so we can’t afford to let our guard down,” the soft-spoken former national team assistant coach said.

“It is a tough pool and our minimum target on day one is making it into the Main Cup quarters. Mwamba are playing at home so definitely that’s a tough one and Nondescript as well is not an easy opponent,” he added.

-Changes-

The coach has shown his intent by maintaining the core squad that won in Mombasa but made three changes occasioned by injury. He has brought in Tony Khadambi, Mark Wandeto and Michael Nyakundi for Riddick Okwemba, Brian Songoi and Collins Shikoli.

“It is very important to maintain consistency because that’s the mark of a winning team. We will only make changes when need be. We have a rich squad depth with most national team players not here with is. If these ones keep winning, then there is no need to change,” Murunga explained.

Among the players who might be in line to strengthen the team this campaign include Kenya Simbas star Joshua Chisanga as well as Kenya Simbas players; Augustine Lugonzo, Bush Mwale, Oscar Ayodi and Tony Onyango.

Murunga has disclosed the national team players might get an opportunity at some point in the season but has cautioned that if the current crop continue performing, then he will see no reason of changing.

Among the areas Murunga has worked to improve this past week include the finishing bit of play which he said was one of the grey areas from last weekend.

Homeboyz team for Kabeberi Sevens:

Charles Omondi, Oscar Okaron, Humphrey Owuor, Leonard Mugaisi, Tony Khadambi, Jeff Oluoch, Cyprian Kuto, Michael Wanjala, Stanley Isogol. Keith Wasike, Mark Wandeto, Zeden.

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 8- Albeit the uncertainty of the Kenya Para-Volley teams delayed allowances and playing Kits, head coach Julius Ouma is confident of finishing first in Kigali and qualify for the 2018 World Championship. 

Both the men’s and women’s national teams have been training at the Kasarani Indoor Arena from last month and Ouma believes the team will perform well because of the long time the team has stayed together.

Ouma added that the desire by the teams to qualify for the 2018 championship in Netherlands has given the players more strength.

“I have been shaping the team from as early as three months ago, I am sure of clinching number one position in Rwanda. The team is eagerly waiting to travel to Kigali. That’s a great attitude from them. Our target as a team is not just to go to the championship qualifiers but to be part of the 2018 World Championship in Netherlands,’’ the tactician asserted.

However, Ouma lamented on the teams struggle in terms of finance and lack of government support as a major hindrance to the possible success of the national seating Volleyball team.

Speaking to Capital Sport, the coach admitted that it has been difficult for him as a coach to have all his players for training since most of them are out hustling for their families.

“It’s been really hard on me as a person they look up to. These players sometimes come to training late because they have to hustle on other means for their families. I cannot punish them as a coach because at the end of the day I know they have not received any sense of appreciation in form of allowances and they are expected to eat, pay bills and provide for their families,’’ Ouma  added.

The men’s and women’s Para volley teams will open their campaign against Egypt and Congo respectively in Kigali on Wednesday and the tactician has singled out the Pharos as strong opponents.

“We are going to face Egypt next week on Wednesday.  I have been able to see them play and I think they are one of the best teams at this stage of the competition. I have talked to my team and we have to show maximum concentration when facing them, it’s not going to be good for us to lose our first fixture,’’ Ouma said.

The post Kenya Para-Volley teams eye worlds slot despite challenges appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 8- Losing Driftwood Sevens finalists Nakuru RFC have found themselves dumped in the middle of the pool of death at Kabeberi Sevens, the second leg of the National Sevens Circuit this weekend, facing Kenya Harlequin, KCB and Kisii RFC.

But Head coach Mitch Ochollah wears a brace face that Wanyore can still navigate off the group and make it into a second consecutive Main Cup quarter final with straight wins.

“Respect to every team there but I believe that we have a squad that can make it off into the quarters. The players look very sharp ahead of this weekend and the focus remains the same from Mombasa. We have to go in and take control of the group,” Ochollah, who joined Nakuru prior to season kick-off, said.

Basing on their performance in Mombasa, the tactician has made two tactical changes, Gramwell Bunyasi coming in for his first appearance of the season alongside Collins Onyango replacing Davis Namusasi and Martin Muita.

“We needed a bit of speed and creativity in the middle and that is why we made those two changes. Our finishing in Mombasa was a bit off because we didn’t score most of the tries we created. We wanted to get some pace on our play and that is why the two fantastic players come in,” the coach explained.

Nakuru won two and drew one of their group matches in Mombasa last weekend. In the Main Cup quarters, they beat Kabras 12-7 and advanced to wade off a tough Mean Machine side 7-0 in the semi finals.

Ochollah maintains the minimum target this weekend remains getting into the semi-finals, but admits a shot at their first Main Cup title of the season isn’t a far-fetched idea.

“We surpassed our goals last weekend and it is only a matter of mentality this weekend that we can go one better. If you are a dreamer, you are an achiever. We want to bring in the brotherhood and hard working nature to Kabeberi. I believe in the boys and we will go there and give it a shot,” the tactician, referred by his peers as Mojo notes.

-Pool of death-

His main opponents in the group KCB and Quins have done changes in their squads after failing to hit their targets in Mombasa. KCB were underwhelming and failed to reach the Main Cup quarters. They have made four changes heading to Kabeberi.

Arthur Owira, Isaac Njoroge, Mike Wanjala and Elphas Otieno have been drafted in to replace Ken Moseti, Brian Omondi, Benjamin Ojema and Sam Asati with Michael Kimwele listed as the team’s 13th player.

The bankers will once again rely on the experience of national team players Darwin Mukidza, Jacob Ojee and Davis Chenge as well as the prowess of their top scorer Ahmed Shabaan.

Meanwhile, Kenya Harlequins who finished second in the series last season will hope for a better performance playing on their home ground and head coach Joash Odhalo has made his intent known, throwing three of his new signings into the fray.

Aaron Ofoyrwoth, Solomon Okia and Joseph Aredo are set to make their National Sevens Circuit debuts coming in for Edward Shitanda, Pius Shiundu and Ginton Adongo who is out for long term after suffering knee ligament damage in Mombasa.

Speaking to Capital Sport in Mombasa last weekend, Odhalo registered disappointment with their performance where they finished 10th but is optimistic of a better show this time round especially with a few tactical changes.

Nakuru RFC squad:

Philip owuor, Cassius Omollo, Monate Akwei, George Kimani, Walter Okoth, Geoff Ominde, Don Aluoch, Collins Onyango, Brian Maina, Kelvin Kioko, Crispin Onyango, Gramwell Bunyasi

Kenya Harlequins squad:

Herman Humwa, Roxy Dan Suchi, Edwin Okemwa, Jared Owinyo, Kevin Angote, Newton Partet, Eric Shikuku, Aaron Ofoyrwoth, Joseph Aredo, Stanley Lunani, Dennis Otieno, Solomon Okia, Sosthine Oloo.

KCB squad:

Davis Chenge, Martin Owila, Vincent Onyala, Stafford Abeka, Arthur Owira, Michael Wanjala, Michael Kimwele, Ahmed Shaban, Darwin Mukidza, Jacob Ojee, Elphas Otieno, Isaac Njoroge, Collins Nato.

The post Ochollah confident of navigating off pool of death appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 8- Kabras Sugar has made a statement of intent ahead of the Kabeberi Sevens, the second leg of the National Sevens Circuit this weekend by throwing into the fray three experienced faces.

National team players Dan Sikuta and Felix Tanga make the cut with Sikuta having been with the team in Mombasa while Fabian Olando returns to action for the first time after missing a whole calendar year with injury.

Head coach Charles Cardovillis has said the changes are testament enough of his side’s ambition after missing out on the Main Cup in the season opening Driftwood Sevens in Mombasa last weekend, finishing the leg fifth.

“We are in it to win it and the players we have sent out to do duty tells the story. They bring in loads of experience and firepower and it is good to have them in the team. We looked at some of the weaknesses we had in Mombasa and we strengthened,” Cardovillis noted.

“We had some problems with our half-line which was missing a bit of firepower and the players who are coming in will give us that plus a bit of dynamism,” the tactician further explained.

Kabras are in what on paper looks like an easy pool with Mombasa surprise package Mean Machine, Strathmore and newly promoted Makueni RFC.

He is however, cautious on his approach and has warned his players to take each game with the same measure of seriousness, his target being a minimum of the Main Cup semis.

“We saw what machine did last week and it shows you that you can’t take any team for granted. The pool is very unpredictable and everyone there can show up and surprise,” the former Kenya Harlequin director of rugby added.

The coach is pleased with how his team has performed so far, acknowledging they played attractive rugby in the opening leg except for a few gremlins.

He has urged his players to ensure they perform well on game ones, something he says let them down in Mombasa.

“How we start each day is very important. Our first games in Mombasa on both days were not good. If we can be able to wake up well and get straight into it, then we have a good chance,” the coach offered.

Kabras who have never won the circuit begin their campaign against Makueni before taking on Strathmore and Mean Machine later in the day.

Kabras Sugar team for Kabeberi:

Brian Tanga, Habil Malika, Dan Sikuta, Brian Juma, Johnston Mung’au, David Amboso, Timothy Mmasi, Felix Ayange, Philip Wokorach, Fabian Olando, Jacob Okumba, Dominic Osino, Aluda Beda.

The post We are in it to win, declare Kabras ahead of Kabeberi appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 8 – Over 300 teams from the Rift Valley region will kick off the inaugural Chapa Dimba na Safaricom tournament this weekend.

The teams from Central and North Rift will take part in the group stages of the tournament in over 70 different venues.

The teams will play in Molo Stadium, Rhonda Primary and Njoro Day in Nakuru. In Keiyo, the teams will compete at St. Patrick’s Iten, among other venues as they seek to qualify for the regional play-offs.

The competition will then move to Western and Nyanza regions in October, Coast and North Eastern in November. Central and Nairobi regions play-offs begin in January.

“We are glad that the journey to discovering Kenya’s next biggest football stars is finally about to kick off. The Rift region has one of the highest number of teams so we expect to see some amazing action on the ground,” said Nick Mwendwa, FKF, President.

The competition seeks to develop grassroot football, scout youth talent and eventually draft gifted players to the National team. It will feature 1,342 boys teams and 282 girls teams from all over the country.

“We are happy to be part of a tournament that will determine the next generation of great football talent. We wish all the participating teams the best of luck as they try out for a chance to participate in the knockout phase,” said Sylvia Mulinge, Director – Consumer Business, Safaricom.

The group stages will be followed by the knockout phase, regional finals, with the grand finale set for March 2018.

The winning teams will walk away with Sh1 Million each and an opportunity to go for an international winning camp in London in April 2018.

Safaricom has invested Shs100 million towards the program which includes Shs10 million shillings worth of prizes as well as for renovation of some of the community pitches through a legacy programme to provide football related equipment to assist the grassroots teams.

Safaricom has previously sponsored football programmes including Sakata Ball and Safaricom Next Generation in partnership with My Profession Dreams Academy. Other sports that Safaricom is involved in are Athletics, Golf, Rugby and the Classic Safari Rally.

The post Chapa Dimba na Safaricom to kick off this weekend appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 8 – Nairobi Standard Chartered Half Marathon winner Matthew Kiprotich will lead a strong field of elite athletes in a 10km Road Race in Iten on Saturday as the Safaricom Athletics Series moves to Elgeyo Marakwet County.

About 500 athletes are expected to participate in 8th edition of the annual event which has received Sh1m sponsorship from Safaricom bringing the total sponsorship for this race to almost Sh7m over the years.

The 10km Road Race was launched by retired marathoner Lornah Kiplagat in 2002 to celebrate the anniversary of her High Altitude Training Centre which has hosted the likes of World Champions Abel Kirui, Florence Kiplagat and Edna Kiplagat and Olympic Medalists Asbel Kiprop and David Rudisha.

“We expect athletes from many parts of the country because the homegrown ones have shown that the race really does benefit young people interested in turning athletics into a career. Kiprotich participated in this race last year and won the Standard Chartered Half Marathon, I believe his form improved because of the race,” said Kibet Biwott, the race organizer.

The flag-off for the race will be at the boundary between Elgeyo Marakwet and Uasin Gishu Counties along Eldoret–Iten Road at 8.30am with the finishing point at Iten Grounds.

“Our involvement in this event is a sign of our continued commitment to support athletics from the grassroots level. I am excited by the prospect of seeing Gladys Chesir – who represented our country at the Prague Half Marathon in action again. We are happy that through our support the likes of Chesir and other talented athletes have received a platform to develop their skills,” said Sylvia Mulinge, Director – Consumer Business Unit – Safaricom.

Winners of this year’s Iten Road Race will walk away with Sh40, 000, in both the men’s and women’s races.

Other races in the Series include: Ndalat Gaa Cross Country, Madoka Half Marathon, Imenti South Road Race and Kisumu Town Marathon, which will wind up this year’s edition in December.

The post Stanchart Half Marathon winner Kiprotich to compete at Iten 10Km appeared first on Capital Sports.

NEW YORK, United States, Sep 9 – Rafael Nadal moved one win away from a third US Open title and 16th Grand Slam crown Friday when he defeated weary Juan Martin del Potro 4-6, 6-0, 6-3, 6-2.

The 31-year-old Spaniard, the 2010 and 2013 champion in New York, will be playing in his 23rd Slam final and third this year, looking to add the US title to his record 10th French Open.

In Sunday’s final, the world number one will face 32nd-ranked Kevin Anderson, the first South African in the championship match in 52 years.

Anderson reached his maiden final at the majors by beating 12th-seeded Pablo Carreno Busta of Spain 4-6, 7-5, 6-3, 6-4.

For 2009 champion Del Potro, Friday’s match was one too many as the physical and emotional toll of seeing off Roger Federer in four sets in the previous round left him spent.

“I have had an amazing season after some tough moments with injuries in recent years,” said Nadal, who started 2017 by finishing runner-up to Federer in Australia.

“It’s a very emotional year for me. I am in the final again and get the chance to fight for another title which is very important.”

Nadal said the key to Friday’s win was a change of tactics after the first set.

“I played too much to his backhand and I felt he was waiting for me there,” said Nadal after his 15th successive Grand Slam semi-final win.

“I changed it and it worked very well. I made him move more and make it all more unpredictable.”

Nadal finished with 45 winners and 20 unforced errors to Del Potro’s 23 and 40.

Despite a 4-0 winning record over Anderson, Nadal said he will not underestimate his opponent on Sunday.

“He is a very dangerous player with a big serve and plays very well on this surface. I have known him since we were 12.

“He’s had many injuries but the way he has come back is a great example to the kids.”

Del Potro, who saved two match points against Dominic Thiem in a last-16 tie from which he almost retired with illness, gained the only break of the first set in the fifth game off a fortunate net cord.

– ‘Been long road’ –

However, few would begrudge Del Potro a little luck after he was pushed to the brink of retirement by four wrist surgeries that saw his ranking slip as low as 1,045 and forced him to miss 10 Grand Slam tournaments.

Nadal hit back with venom, gathering three breaks to take the second set in just 26 minutes as the Argentine suffered a power cut of staggering proportions.

The Spaniard, watched by Tiger Woods in his player’s box, then raced into a 3-0 lead in the third before Del Potro stopped the rot, having lost nine games in succession.

The Argentine saved two set points in the eighth game but Nadal soon wrapped it up at the next time of asking, pushing his opponent into desperate defense before the delivering the killer blow into an open court.

Nadal, beaten by Del Potro at the same stage in 2009, tightened the noose with two breaks for 4-1 and easy hold for 5-1.

It was all over in the eighth game when Nadal buried unleashed a backhand winner.

“I’m angry to lose a chance like this, but maybe tomorrow I will be calm and see how big the tournament was for me,” said Del Potro.

Anderson, 31, will attempt to become his country’s first Slam champion since Johan Kriek at the 1981 Australian Open.

Cliff Drysdale was the last South African man in the US final in 1965 but he was defeated by Manuel Santana.

“It has been a long road. This means the world to me,” said Anderson, whose career was at a crossroads in January when hip problems forced him out of the Australian Open and his ranking slumped to 80.

“This is why we work so hard. I was pretty nervous with it being the first time on the sport’s most famous stage.”

Carreno Busta, also playing in his first semi-final at the Slams, had not dropped a set at the tournament, helped by playing four qualifiers, and he was a set to the good on Friday, breaking in the seventh game.

The Spaniard had pocketed the opener hitting just two winners and only one unforced error.

But 6ft 8in (2.03m) Anderson eventually imposed himself much to the approval of watching Hollywood star Robert Redford and Microsoft founder Bill Gates

Anderson finished the tie with a power-packed 22 aces and 58 winners.

The post Nadal downs Del Potro, faces Anderson for US Open title appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 9- Kepha Aswani stepped off the bench to score two goals in two minutes as Nakumatt FC beat Posta Rangers 2-0 at the Ruaraka Complex on Saturday afternoon to extinguish the mailmen’s minute title hopes.

Deadlocked at 0-0 at halftime, Aswani came on at the start of the second half replacing Kevin Thairu, and he proved his worth with two goals in the 71^st and 73^rd minutes, not only giving his side maximum points but taking his season tally of goals to 10.

Posta Rangers, third with 35 points had hoped to pick three points and narrow the gap between them and leaders Gor Mahia, but the loss more or less leaves them way off the pace.

Nakumatt up their bid for a top eight finish at the end of the season with the vital win coming off a run of three winless matches lifting them a spot up to 10^th.

Both sides had equal chances in the opening half, but Posta should have created more with the huge number of set pieces they won on either flank of the pitch.

It was Nakumatt who had the opening chances of the game, both falling on Tanzanian midfielder David Naftali. In the 11^th minute, the midfielder dribbled his way to the edge of the Posta box and unleashed a vicious shot which went straight to Patrick Matasi.

Two minutes later, Naftali had an even better chance, sneaking in between the Posta backline to head in from a Peter Nzuki freekick from the right but the effort went inches over the bar.

Posta’s first chance came in the 19^th minute and it was one of the best of the half when Gaerson Likonoh sneaked in behind the defense to connect to a Simon Mbugua cross, but his bouncing header six yards off the target went over.

Omollo’s men had been slowly growing into the game but were undone by some suspect passing and ball control. In the 21^st minute, Jerry Santo tried his luck from distance, unleashing a shot that was well saved by the Nakumatt keeper.

The mailmen continued controlling the game, winning set pieces especially off the left wing with Nicholas Mejja guilty of giving away many freekicks. However, Posta who have been known as a team dangerous on dead balls failed to create danger.

Seven minutes from half time, some good build up by Nakumatt on the left saw John Njoroge break into the box with the left back’s thunderous shot coming off the upright with Matasi left rooted to his spot.

Aswani showed glimpses of what was to be expected from him, getting two quick chances in the 59^th and 61^st minutes. First, his header from an Oyoo cross went wide at the near post while the second chance two minutes later also off an Oyoo cross was wide with a diving header.

In the 65^th minute, Joseph Mbugi had a well taken effort with a freekick from the right but was turned behind for a corner, while on the other end, Matasi pulled a decent block to deny Akenga with a close range shot.

Nakumatt then made their second half impression count within a space of two minutes. Aswani slapped the ball past Matasi inside the box after picking a decent cut back from Oyoo who had drove in on the left after stealing the ball off Geoffrey Kataka.

In Sublime fashion, Aswani completed his brace with a sublime volley inside the box, connecting the ball from a Clinton Kisiavuki cross completely unmarked inside the box.

The post Aswani double dims Posta’s title hopes appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 9- Jacques Tuyisenge struck a brace as record 15-time Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia beat Nzoia Sugar 4-0 to open up a nine-point gap at the top of the Kenyan Premier League standings.

More goals from Meddie Kagere and substitute Francis Kahata lifted K’Ogalo to their 14^th win of the season, moving a step closer to reclaiming the league title from Tusker FC. Second placed Sofapaka will be playing Chemelil Sugar on Sunday in Narok.

Nzoia had the earliest chance of the game after a speedy start but Victor Omondi could not beat Gor shot stopper Peter Odhiambo one on one after running behind the Gor defense.

K’Ogalo however grew into the game as it progressed with Tuyisenge and Kagere making inroads into the Nzoia backline, looking for that opening chance.

They got the goal they yearned for in the 25^th minute when Tuyisenge raced in to a George ‘Blackberry’ Odhiambo cross, glancing it powerfully past the Nzoia keeper.

The goal hugely calmed Gor down as they played with more ease, passing the ball around with comfort. Gor doubled their lead a minute to half time, Kagere again sneaking in behind the defense to head home a freekick from Kenneth Muguna.

In the second half, Nzoia started with pace again and had a chance to half the deficit from the penalty spot after Gor keeper Odhiambo had fouled Masita Masuta. However, Steve Wakanya failed to convert, Odhiambo redeeming himself with a good save.

Nzoia were punished for the missed chance three minutes later when Tuyisenge completed his brace with a neat finish.

Kahata then made it 4-0 barely three minutes after coming in with another header, this time Tuyisenge turning from goal scorer to provider, floating in the cross.

Dylan Kerr’s men managed to keep the score intact, choosing to enjoy the play and wind down the clock with Tuyisenge later withdrawn for John Ndirangu.

The post Gor Mahia hit Nzoia to open nine-point gap appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 9- Elijah Mwanzia’s 89^th minute winner sparked wild celebrations at the Ruaraka Complex on Saturday evening as Mathare United beat Western Stima 2-1 to move off the relegation zone for the first time this season.

Substitute Robert Achema had given Stima a lifeline with a 72^nd minute equalizer after Chris Oduor had given Mathare the lead, but a resilient Mathare ensured they got the winner to crawl off the jaws of relegation.

“I am really impressed with our fighting spirit and we took risks that paid off. When Stima became a bit physical we brought in players who could match their physicality and at the end of the day it paid off. Our confidence grew and we won,” Mathare United head coach Francis Kimanzi said after the match.

His opposite number Henry Omino was left distraught especially with Mathare’s winner coming after his central defender Maurice Ojwang had been stretchered off injured.

“They used that space to hit us before we could even re-organize. We wanted to win this match and we had a chance especially with how we played in the second half It hurts but we have to re-organize for Wednesday,” Omino said.

The two sides had started with pace, each with a chance in the opening five minutes. Ezekiel Otuoma found himself isolated inside the box in the second minute from a Brian Marita cross but his diving header went wide though the second assistant ref had the flag up for offside.

On the other end, John ‘Mavado’ Mwangi tested Samuel Odhiambo with a fierce shot from the right but the Stima shot stopper was equal to the task.

Mathare were the better team in the opening half with Roy Okal and Edward Seda commanding the midfield, spraying passes well.

Mathare opened the scoring in the 13^th minute when Chris Oduor scored his ninth goal of the season after calmly controlling Seda’s pass in the middle of Stima defenders, showed his strength to shield himself and lob over the keeper.

Five minutes on the turn, Stima had a chance to come back level after Marita had turned George ‘Wise’ Owino inside out on the right, but the Stima man’s eventual shot deflected off Andrew Juma to go wide.

In the second half, Stima were the better side, starting off with so much pace and attacking mode. Marita and Otuoma were causing all sorts of trouble for the Mathare backline but they still couldn’t get the right tact to score.

They eventually did in the 72^nd minute and it was a product of two substitutes. Achema tapped in at the far post after Hamadi Mbumba headed the ball towards him.

Marita had won the ball ahead of keeper Levis Opiyo and flicked it behind with the keeper still on the floor and Mbumba then nodded it for Achema to score.

Mathare immediately got back on song after being thrust to action by Stima’s equalizer. Mwangi should have given his side the lead again but his tap from a Seda through ball went wide with keeper Odhiambo out to narrow the angle.

Kimanzi responded by bringing in Mwanzia for Mwangi and the change paid dividends with the former nodding home unmarked inside the box from a Derrick Onyango cross.

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 9 – Kenyan marathoner Abel Kirui says that his memorable maiden World Championships success in Berlin was a pivotal moment in his career.

“Leading into the 2009 World Championships, I knew I was in good form. I was the last man selected for the Kenyan team, but I had qualified on the back of running a PB of 2:05:04 in Rotterdam earlier that year,” Kirui said.

“I was also the quickest man in the field and that gave me confidence, although I knew my countryman Robert Cheruyiot was the favourite and the form horse having won in Boston in April. I also knew the other Kenyan, Emmanuel Mutai, would be very strong.”

“We went through halfway in 1:03:03 (the fastest ever halfway split in a World Championships marathon at that time) and both Robert and Emmanuel were fighting. But sometimes you need to not only fight with energy; you need to race with cleverness.”

“(Tsegaye) Kebebe (of Ethiopia) was also playing smart game. Every time the pace changed, he was there and was a big danger. I remember Mutai surging and pushing and Robert dropped off the pace. But late in the race Emmanuel had some problems with vomiting and I moved to the front. I couldn’t allow my legs to become lazy. I needed to win.

“It was the perfect race for me and just five metres from the finishing line the heavens opened and it began to rain. I crossed the line to win (in 2:06:54, a time which still stands as the championship record) and I went into a little dance. I was so happy. I had had given it a little thought before I had finished and I knew a dance would be fun. I didn’t even dance to music. The music was in my mind.

“When I went back home, we had a big celebration of my win with Emmanuel Mutai, who won the silver medal (Kebede of Ethiopia took the bronze). I remember going back to Nairobi where we had a beautiful reception and a big celebration. I later took a big concourse of cars from Eldoret to my home in Kapasbet, where we had a big celebration with music and the fans. It was amazing.

“Winning my first world title changed my life. It gave me a lot of opportunities and allowed me to travel the world to many big races. I travelled first-class on a plane for a race in Sapporo. Winning my first world title gave me many good things.”

Kirui retained his world title two years later in Daegu before taking the silver medal in the marathon at the London 2012 Olympic Games. He is also the reigning Chicago Marathon champion.

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PRAGUE, Czech Republic, Sep 9 – Kenya’s Joyciline Jepkosgei became the first woman ever to run 10 kilometres on the road in under half an hour after clocking 29min 43sec in Prague on Saturday.

The 23-year-old Kenyan, who set the world half marathon record in the Czech capital in April, beat her own record of 30min 04sec she had set during that race.

“I’m so happy, I thank God for making me the winner today and… (breaking) the world record,” Jepkosgei told Czech Television.

“I was very confident and I was hoping for the best,” she added, after beating compatriot Fancy Chemutai and Kenyan-born Bahrain runner Violah Jepchumba in Prague’s historic centre.

Kenyans also dominated the men’s race, with Benard Kimeli taking the honours in 27min 10sec, beating his brother Matthew and fellow Kenyan Rhonex Kipruto.

Behind her, compatriot Fancy Chemutai was second in 30:06, just two seconds outside of the previous world record for the third fastest time ever. Violah Jepchumba, last year’s winner, clocked 30:25 to finish third.

The men’s race also delivered some especially fast times, with the first three producing the three fastest times in the world this season. It was a thriller as well, with Benard Kimeli and Mathew Kimeli battling stride-for-stride over the final kilometre before Benard prevailed in 27:10, a new course record and lifetime best.

“I’m really pleased with my time,” the winner said. “The pacemakers were running a bit too slow, so I decided to take things into my own hands and set my own pace. The final two kilometres and the duel with Mathew were seriously gripping and I’m delighted to say I’ve finally managed to win in Prague.”

Mathew Kimeli crossed the finish just a step behind in 27:11 with little known compatriot Rhonex Kipruto third in 27:13.

Eight men managed to finish in under twenty-eight minutes including the Norwegian Sondre Nordstad Moen whose performance of 27:55 meant a personal best and the best European time recorded this year.

Leading results:

MEN –

1. Benard Kimeli, KEN 27:10
2. Methew Kipkorir Kimeli, KEN 27:11
3. Rhonex Kipruto, KEN 27:13
4. Justus Kangogo, KEN 27:51
5. Amos Kibiwot Kurgat, KEN 27:53
6. Jamal Yimer Mekonnen, ETH 27:54
7. Sondre Nordstad Moen, NOR 27:55
8. Isaac Kipkoech Langat, KEN 27:55
9. Robert Kipchichir Mwei, KEN 28:05
10. Abel Kipchumba, KEN 28:06

WOMEN –

1. Joyciline Jepkosgei, KEN 29:43
2. Fancy Chemutai, KEN 30:06
3. Violah Jepchumba, BRN 30:25
4. Sheila Chepkirui Kiprotich, KEN 30:28
5. Stacy Chepkemboi Ndiwa, KEN 31:37
6. Belaynesh Tsegaye, ETH 32:52
7. Eva Vrabcová-Nývltová, CZE 33:08
8. Iulia Shmatenko, UKR 33:18
9. Olga Skrypak, UKR 34:01
10. Kayoko Fukushi, JPN 34:44

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 10- Kabeberi Sevens defending champions Impala RFC remained on course to defend their title after progressing to the Main Cup semis with a 17-0 win over a resurgent KCB at the RFUEA Ground on Sunday morning.

It was a morning of shocks in the Main Cup quarters with circuit defending champions and last weekend’s Driftwood Sevens winners being dumped out of title contention courtesy of a sudden death penalty against Strathmore University.

In the other quarter final matches, Menengai Oilers continued with their superb run making it to a second consecutive Main Cup semi after beating Kenya Harlequins 31-5.

Kabras also went through to the last four coming from 10-0 down to beat Nondies 29-10. The sugarmen will now face off with holders Impala in the semis as Oilers take on Strathmore.

In the fifth and sixth place semi finals, Homeboyz tackle Quins while Nondies will be taking on KCB.

Circuit champions Homeboyz were first in line on the day hugely hopeful of raking in another Main Cup title. However, that dream seemed to be fizzling away until Leonard Mugaisi dotted down a try at the buzzer to force the game to sudden death.

Strathmore had shown resilience coming from behind after Mugaisi had given Homeboyz an early lead after dotting down on the right. From kick off, Homeboyz had won the ball and twice won back possession after Strathmore had turned over.

After the break, trailing 5-0, the Madaraka based students came back better and Alex Olaba drew the sides level after some good play by the students, showing good speed from a Dennis Juma offload.

Albert Obura then took Strathmore into the lead with a try from another Juma offload. Obura’s effort on the conversion went up against the upright but Strathmore still kept a 10-5 lead.

At the buzzer, the siren for Homeboyz’s exit had sounded, but Paul Murunga’s men were not giving up easy. Mugaisi, Most valuable Player from last weekend’s Driftwood Sevens in Mombasa showed his class, racing away superbly on the left past two chasers before dotting down.

Homeboyz would have won had they converted, but Charles Omondi’s effort went wide.

Into sudden death, it was anyone’s game. Homeboyz were under pressure while Strathmore took the game with more ease but competitive seriousness.

George Orembo came close with a good kick and chase upfront but he knocked the ball on inside the try box as he attempted to land a try.

But Strathmore were not giving up easily scenting victory and when they won a foul inside the Homeboyz 22, the only decision was to kick. Lucas Opal took the duties, kicked between the posts and Strathmore ran off 13-10 winners.

In the second semi, Oilers landed five tries as they took crisp control of their game, showing the exact spirit and belief they had in Mombasa despite facing the tournament’s big boys.

Amos Onyinkwa grounded while Derrick Kimani added in the extras, Gibson Weru’s men starting off well. Harold Ojango then went on to add a second under the posts but Kimani’s conversion hit the bar, Oilers taking a 12-0 lead.

The dominance continued in the second half with Eric Ombasa adding the third try, Derrick Keyoga the fourth and Dan Abuongi the fifth. Two of those tries were converted.

Aaron Ofoyrwoth making his debut for Quins grabbed one back as the game ended 31-5.

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 10 – Kenya’s Mary Keitany stormed to her third Great North Run in 1:05:59, the third fastest women’s time in the race’s history set on Sunday in United Kingdom.

London Marathon winner Keitany surged to her third victory after she broke clear of the pack in the opening stages and set a tough pace as she finished one minute and 45 seconds clear of fellow Kenyan Vivian Cheruiyot, who won last year.

Caroline Kipkirui, who pushed hard to keep pace with compatriot Keitany up until the eight-mile mark, finished third in 1:09:52.

Fourth place went to another Kenyan, Magdalyne Masai, who had further reason for joy after Robertson proposed to her at the finish line after his race.

-Farah wins fourth successive title-

Britain’s Mo Farah won the men’s race for a record-breaking fourth successive year.

Farah, a four-time Olympic champion, saw off a determined challenge from New Zealand’s Jake Robertson in the closing stages of the race to finish in a time of one hour and six seconds.

The 34-year-old is the first athlete to win the Great North Run four times in a row.

He is now level in terms of most victories with Kenya’s Benson Masya, who was champion four times in the 1990s.

Farah, who last month finished his glittering track career with a thrilling 5,000m victory at the Diamond League final in Zurich, produced his trademark ‘Mobot’ celebration in Newcastle as he crossed the line.

Robertson was six seconds back in second place, with Ethiopia’s Feyisa Lilesa coming third.

Farah told the BBC after his season-concluding race: “That was really, really tough. I’m sore everywhere – I’ve never been this sore!

“With four miles to go I was just hanging on, gritting my teeth.

“As we got closer, I managed to believe in myself and dig, and I was thinking ‘if I can just sit on him (Robertson), at the end I can sprint’.

“I’m so pleased with how the season has gone. I’ll go on a little holiday with the missus and then come back fresh.

“I’m looking forward to sticky toffee pudding and apple pie!”

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 10- Defending champions Impala Saracens will face surprise package Menengai Oilers in the Kabeberi Sevens final at the RFUEA Ground this afternoon.

Hard hitting Impala downed pre-tournament favorites Kabras Sugar 24-15 while Oilers left it late before squeezing away Strathmore University 22-17.

While Impala made easy work of Kabras, the first semi-final pitting Gibson Weru’s Oilers and University side Strathmore was pure entertainment.

Strathmore were headed for a narrow 17-15 win but a fully determined Oilers dug deep in their energy reserves knicking in a converted try after the buzzer to go off with the win.

Harold Ojango crossed over on the right after a spirited run coming off some patient build up from Oilers who were under pressure to keep the ball after the buzzer had gone. It was a sweet ending for the Nakuru based side who had all along been the crowd favorite.

Strathmore were the first to cross over through Dennis Juma who took advantage of some gaping holes at the back to dot down.

Oilers responded through Ojango to tie the scores at 5-5 but Stratmore ensured they got back into the lead with Juma adding his second of the afternoon. Gideon Makumi booted home the extras for a 12-5 lead.

The never give up attitude from Oilers was evident as they won possession from the re-start and built up nice and patiently and Sam Muregi dived in to dot down from an Erick Ombassa offload for a 10-12 score at half time.

In the second half, Oilers started better and Ojango struck his second try of the afternoon after the Nakuru based side took the game to Strathmore, forcing them to open up.

But the game was far from done with Lucas Opal taking Strathmore back into the lead, much thanks to some good work from Alex Olaba who sprinted away on the left before offloading after being tackled.

But Oilers never gave up, Ojango completing his hatrick in superb fashion for the win.

In the second semi, Impala were in imperious form, dotting down four tries against Kabras’ three with Paul Mustami putting across two of those.

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 10 – Defending champions Tusker FC succumbed to a 2-0 defeat away to Sony Sugar as AFC Leopards beat hosts Zoo Kericho 3-1 in the Kenyan Premier League matches played on Sunday.

In Narok, high flying Sofapaka thrashed visitors Chemelil Sugar 4-1 in a match that the Sugar Millers finished with 10 men. Ugandan Umaru Kasumba scored a hat-trick while Ezekiel Okare competed the rout.

The win for Batoto ba Mungu saw them sit second with 41 points, six points behind leaders and record 15-time champions Gor Mahia who have a match in hand.

For AFC Leopards despite the win, they lag behind in 13th place with 27 points as head coach Robert Matano continues to surge forward with hopes of achieving his top five target.

Tusker on the other hand dipped to ninth in the 18 team log with 30 points, hence facing an uphill task of defending their title because they are 17 points adrift of Gor Mahia.

-Classic AFC Leopards-

At the Kericho Green Stadium, Matano guided AFC Leopards to a crucial win to continue his good run since taking charge.

With the visitors controlling possession from the whistle, Ray Omondi broke the deadlock for Leopards six minutes after kick-off, making good use of a well delivered corner from Marcelus Ingotsi.

The pressure could have seen Ingwe double the scores but Zoo custodian Samwel Koko was alert to punch over Samuel Ndung’u’s long range cracker in the 10th minute.

The scores could have read 3-0 inside 20 minutes had defender Robinson Kamura converted two free-kicks at the edge of the box as the heavens opened.

However, Omondi did do wonders to double the scores and grab his brace at the half hour mark to put Ingwe at the steering wheel.

The second half was even better for Leopards with Vincent Oburu netting his debut league goal from an Ingotsi assist in the 55th minute to send his side 3-0 up.

Zoo’s effort to pull one back was denied by the post in the 71st minute from a well delivered free-kick.

Eventually the hosts managed to find the consolation thanks to Nicholas Kipkirui’s strike.

-Tusker title defense blow-

At the Green Stadium in Awendo, Tusker FC’s hopes of retaining the KPL title were dimmed after finding the going tough.

Returning from a lengthy lay off, former Nairobi City Stars forward George Abege grabbed the headlines after displaying a man of the match performance, scoring a brace.

Abege opened the scoring after seven minutes of play when he picked a fine pass from Benjamin Mosha from the right to beat Tusker shot-stopper Duncan Ochieng one-on-one.

Sony head coach Salim Babu bossed the game thereafter until Abege doubled the lead from a rebound as Duncan Ochieng failed to deal with a powerful cross from Amos Asembeka.

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NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 10- Impala Saracens successfully defended their Kabeberi Sevens title, wading off the challenge of surprise package Menengai Oilers, beating them 22-5 in a entertaining cup final at the RFUEA Ground on Sunday evening.

Impala used their experience well, closing down the spaces for the high flying Oilers and at the end of the day managed to keep the title they won a year ago and put their season back on track.

“We knew Oilers are good on the ball and if we give them spaces, we will end up hurting ourselves. At the end of the day I think experience counted for us because we knew what to do at crucial moments. But kudos to Oilers I think they are one of the best teams this season and they showed it,” Impala’s Samuel Motari said after the match.

Oilers’ Gibson Weru was gracious in defeat, saying he was pleased with the performance to finish second having come third at the Driftwood Sevens in Mombasa last weekend.

“I couldn’t ask for more from the boys. This is the first time we are making it into a Cup Final and they gave it their all. As a coach I am impressed with their performance. Most of these players don’t have that experience and today, that’s what counted,” Weru told Capital Sport after his side’s performance.

From the onset, Impala didn’t come to play. They shut down Oilers whenever they were in possession and ensured they turned over to keep the ball.

Motari broke the deadlock with a well taken try by Impala, touching down on the left after some neat play with Paul Mustami breaking away through the middle to offload to Motari.

Mark Kwemoi stretched Impala’s lead to 12-0, dotting down and adding the extras. From a well worked turnover, Kwemoi took the ball on the left, turned on the afterburners before blazing on the wing to dot down.

The defending champions added their third try of the final to ensure they went to the break with a healthy 17-0 lead, Mustami dotting down.

From the scrum, Anthony Nyandigisi picked up the ball, offloaded to Mustami who spotted space on the right before galloping upfield and touching down. Kwemoi added in the extras.

In the second half, Impala stuck to their strategy, and they were given a one man advantage when Oilers’ Hughes Anjera was sent to the sin bin.

The numerical advantage was used fully when Ian Minjire intercepted a pass from Oilers’ Sam Muregi before sprinting up on the counter to touch down. Mustami’s attempt at the conversion hit the bar but Impala were already up 22-0 on the scoreboard.

Oilers scored a consolation late on through Derrick Kimani who landed down on the right after some patient build up.

Meanwhile, Mwamba’s poor performance in their own tournament continued as they lost out 17-5 to Nakuru RFC in the Champions Trophy final. Their day turned out worse when their junior side Mwamba II lost out to Mount Kenya University in the Division Two final.

“I am disappointed with how we played because this is not the way we intended things to go. I am sorry to our home fans because this was our home tournament and we were supposed to come here and play good rugby but we disappointed,” Mwamba head coach Kevin Wambua said after the match.

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MANCHESTER, United Kingdom, Sep 10 – The Great North Run is always full of wonderful moments, but elite men’s runner Jake Robertson appears to have grabbed the headlines this year, despite settling second in the race when he won the heart of his Kenyan girlfriend Magdalyne Masai by proposing on the finish line.

That’s because the New Zealand star, who pushed winner and Olympic great Mo Farah all the way, popped the question to his partner after the race.

Jake waited for partner Masai, who is the younger sister to 2009 Berlin 10,000m World Champion Linet Masai, after the Kenyan finished fourth in the women’s elite race, before getting down on one knee.

But she was left in shock after Jake suddenly got down on one knee and asked her to marry him.

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as Magdalyne accepted and the happy couple embraced.

Jake told the media: “In the last mile it just randomly came to my mind that today was the day.”

Robertson, 27, moved to Iten, Kenya with his twin brother and fellow professional runner Zane Robertson when he was 17 years.

He competed in the 5000m at the 2013 World Championships in Moscow, where he finished 14th in the second heat in a time of 14:09.55 and did not qualify for the final.

At the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow he finished ninth in the 5000m and seventh in the 10,000m.

Video of @Jakehtbz proposing to his girlfriend Magdalyne Masai at the finish line of the #GreatNorthRun. Congrats you two. ( @Great_Run ) 😍 pic.twitter.com/pmmgPIlmE6

— Katami Michelle (@MichKatami) September 10, 2017

Love will also be in the air for scientist Laura Cort and her American sweetheart Christina Richter, who will get married on the finish line.

Laura, 44, will be surrounded by loved ones as she says ‘I do’ to her partner, who works as a US charity campaigner.

The couple will make history as they take their vows at the end of the course in South Shields.

Laura, originally from Peterlee, County Durham, but now living in Delaware, America, will freshen up in a ‘delux’ Portaloo in South Shields before walking down the aisle.

Geneticist Laura said before the race: “When she popped the question I had no idea the ceremony would be at the next year’s Great North Run. No-one has ever done it before so we are making history.

The post Will you marry me? New Zealand runner pops question after Kenyan star crosses finish line appeared first on Capital Sports.

NAIROBI, Kenya, Sep 11 – Menengai Oilers head coach Gibson Weru has warned the young side will be a dominant force in Kenyan rugby over the next four years after dazzling in the opening two legs of the National Sevens Circuit.

Oilers moved top of the circuit standings with 36 points after reaching the final of the Kabeberi Sevens on Sunday, just a week after finishing third in the season opening Driftwood Sevens in Mombasa.

“We are working on a four-year plan whereby we want to be most dominant team by 2020. This team is a work in progress and for now, we can’t put pressure that we have to win a main cup. The most important thing is that I want them to play consistently,” Weru, a former Kenya Sevens assistant captain told Capital Sports.

He adds; “If they go out and win then it’s a plus but I am not keen on winning. I am more concerned with them developing and playing consistently.”

Oilers lost out 22-5 to Impala in the Kabeberi final and Weru admitted that it was down to experience, which he says his boys will acquire as they grow into playing their second ever circuit.

“I wouldn’t have asked for more from the boys. They have been amazing throughout the tournament. The difference when it comes to playing in a final is mental and experience which we lacked thus making high school errors. But they are young boys and we keep learning,” the tactician further said.

Courtesy of their win in Kabeberi, Impala moved from sixth to second on the log, the 22 points picked hoisting them to 34, two behind leaders Oilers.

Coach Oscar Osir said his boys have been working hard over the past week in training and the defense of their Kabeberi title shows the amount of work put in to take their season back on track.

“It has been a tough tournament and going all the way to win it is great for us. Kudos to Oilers because they gave us such a hard time. I think they are one of the best teams this season and I am personally a huge fan of them,” Osir said.

He added; “We needed to get these 22 points to get ourselves back on top there and we will keep working hard, take a game at a time and see what we can achieve. I think for now it would be premature for us to start talking about the title.”

Meanwhile, it wasn’t such a positive outing for circuit defending champions Homeboyz RFC who failed to make it past the Cup quarters, losing by a sudden death penalty to Strathmore, then going on to lose to KCB in the 5th/6th place final.

The 12 points picked at Kabeberi saw them drop to third in the standings, but head coach Paul Murunga says it is just a minor blip but they are firmly in the race to defend their title.

“I think for us it is just a wake-up call that we need to work harder. It was unfortunate not to make it off the quarters because our target has been to get to each final. But we will bounce back,” Murunga said.

KCB who won the 5th place final marked a huge improvement from their performance in Mombasa, the 13 points picked hoisting them to seventh in the standings.

“We introduced new players who were hungrier for the game and steered us to where we reached. It’s a step at a time. It is positive that we have improved from bowl to plate. Realistically we can compete for the main cup next time,” KCB head coach Dennis Mwanja said.

Meanwhile, Mwamba RFC failed to shine in their own home tournament, losing two cups on the same day. The senior team lost to Nakuru in the Challenge Trophy final while their second tier team lost to Mount Kenya’s Northern Suburbs in the Division Two final.

Head Coach Kevin Wambua is distraught with the team’s performance especially in front of the home fans, but keeps optimism that his young untested squad will gain valuable experience as the circuit progresses.

“Personally I am disappointed and I am pretty sure the boys are going through a lot let themselves. We didn’t perform well and we let the fans down on our own home tournament. Our decision making has been poor and the players are still in a shell.”

“Most of these players are young and this is their first tournament. But them being here shows they have potential and we will work on them to build their confidence to play well especially under pressure.”

The tactician has demanded a better performance from the team ahead of the next leg, the Prinsloo Sevens in Nakuru and will use the one weekend to play training matches to enhance the team’s performance and work on mistakes.

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