Buyachi impressed by Kisumu RFC’s potential

Former Kenya 15s International Lawi Buyachi is hoping to build up on Kisumu RFC’s performance in the recently concluded 2023 National 7s Circuit to achieve a better feat in the upcoming 2023/24 Kenya Cup season.

The lakeside-based team made a blistering improvement from their last season’s performance, finishing at 10th position with 33 points. Last season, they performed badly, to end the season at 18th position with only four points.

They failed to honour the Kabeberi 7s tournament due to logistical challenges, in addition to their 15s preseason. Despite that, they managed two quarterfinals in the Mombasa and Tisap 7s tournaments.

In an exclusive with Mozzart Sport, Kisumu RFC coach Lawi Buyachi lauded his charges’ unmatched performance in the circuit. The boys were fresh from climbing to the Kenya Cup league prior to the circuit.

The side saw off high-flying Daystar University 19-7 in the championship semifinals played at the Strathmore University grounds on Saturday, March 4 to return to the top-flight league after two years in the cold.

The rift widens: Sancho has been banished from Manchester United's first team

“Our performance was phenomenal. It was a massive improvement from last year's performance. Finishing number 10 overall despite missing one leg is no mean feat. We met almost all our objectives and we can give the performance an 8/10 outcome,” the eloquent Buyachi said.

According to Buyachi, the circuit was a competitive one, but his charges’ teamwork worked the magic. The former South Coast Pirates coach further noted that the boys were ‘hungry for play,’ despite falling short in some areas.

“Teamwork , self belief and game plan execution really stood out for us the entire circuit, the boys were hungry to play and put their names out there. We blew hot and cold at times, and we could not finish off while we had chances,” he offered.

Despite their rollercoaster of performances, Kisumu RFC played in the Division I of all legs, except for Kabeberi 7s where they dished out walkovers. They will be banking on the experience gained to propel them forward in the 15s season.

“As a club , the exposure of playing in all division 1 games was immense. The lads going head to head with big names in the country producing good performances builds our confidence levels as we open another chapter in a longer version of the game. The exposure and experience picked will really come in handy,” he revealed.

The tactician who could not be prouder for his team’s achievement further pointed out that while every player’s performance was exemplary, the team's leadership under Lenny Obiero, Israel Makokha, and Christopher Otieno stood out.

“We don't thrive a lot on individual brilliance, but strive to play as a team. Each player's contribution is vital in overall team performance. However , there was great leadership from the leadership group led by Israel, Lenny and Chris; they ensured the ship was steady at all times,” the former Eldoret RFC coach offered.

As the 2023/24 Kenya Cup season draws nearer, the burly Buyachi finds himself bracing for an uphill task like no other. Leading Kisumu RFC against formidable opponents is no mean feat. Despite that, Buyachi is undeterred, noting that the efforts will eventually pay off. He noted that their main mission would be to survive the competitive Kenya Cup league.

“Our primary and only goal/objective is to survive the cut and maintain the Kenya Cup status, anything else will be a bonus,” he said.

Shiasi dreams big after making national team cut

Buyachi also extended gratitude to all Kisumu RFC players who have been supportive in their journey, noting that the best was yet to come.

During his heydays, Buyachi played for Uganda's Pirates, Impala RFC, Nakuru RFC, and Kabras RFC. The World Rugby Level II accredited coach also had stints with South Coast Pirates, Kabarak RFC, Kabras RFC, and Eldoret RFC as a guest coach.

He left Top Fry Nakuru in 2017 to take up a coaching role at South Coast Pirates, but returned to playing in 2019 when he joined Kabras RFC. Buyachi retired from playing in 2021 to be a full time coach.