Kenya Harlequin clinch 2024 National 7s Circuit title

Kenya Harlequin have been crowned the 2024 National 7s Circuit champions after their closest rivals, Kabras RFC, were knocked out in the Prinsloo 7s semi-final by Nondies in the closely contested semifinal match played on Sunday, 15 September at the Nakuru Athletics Club.

Earlier in the day, Nondies had delayed Quins’ title win, and they again played a pivotal role in sealing the championship by defeating Kabras 15-5 in the semi-final.

With Kabras' defeat, they can now only secure a maximum of 105 points, whereas Harlequin are guaranteed at least 109 points, officially making them the champions.

This victory sees Kenya Harlequin join the ranks of Impala, Mwamba RFC, and KCB Rugby as one of the most successful teams in the National 7s Circuit's history.

SF1: Nondies vs Kabras RFC 

Nondies came out strong in the semi-final, scoring first to take a 5-0 lead.

After winning possession from the kickoff, Benson Salem sold a dummy that left Kabras’ Derrick Ashihundu behind, allowing Salem to score a second try for a 10-0 lead.

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Kabras responded quickly when Jackson Siketa finished off an offload to open their account.

But in the second half, Nyaenya Moseti added another try for Nondies, extending their lead. Kabras came close to narrowing the gap, but a knock-on from Brian Mutua ensured Nondies held on for the win.

With this victory, Nondies advanced to the final, where they will face Strathmore Leos in a rematch of the 2023 Tisap 7s final, which Nondies won 12-7 in sudden death.

SF2: Strathmore vs Oilers 

Strathmore Leos booked their spot in the final after a tense 17-12 extra-time win over Menengai Oilers. 

Oilers took an early 7-0 lead thanks to a try from Lucky Byron.

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However, Strathmore hit back through Kenyan international George Ooro, leveling the score at 7-7 by halftime.

In the second half, Collins Maina put Strathmore ahead, but a late try from Dennis Abukuse tied the game at 12-12. 

The match went into sudden death, where Ooro once again stepped up, securing the win for Strathmore with a decisive try immediately after kickoff.

Harlequin's Quarterfinal Triumph Earlier

Harlequin comfortably defeated Blak Blad 24-5, a crucial victory that helped them overtake Kabras in the standings.

The Paul Murunga-coached side was awarded a penalty try after a high tackle by Kelvin Gathu on David Williams, with the former being sent to the sin bin. 

Quins capitalized on the advantage, scoring again to lead 14-0. Just before halftime, they added another try, taking a commanding 19-0 lead.

Blak Blad managed a consolation try through Meja Mulongo, but Amon Wamalwa sealed Quins’ victory with a late try, securing their place in the semi-finals and, ultimately, the overall Circuit title. 

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Mulongo pulled one back for Blak Blad with an unconverted try, Wamalwa sealed Quins’ win with a late try.

Nakuru RFC's Playoff Push 

In other action, Nakuru RFC earned a spot in the fifth-place playoff after a dominant 20-0 win over Stallions.

Tries from Philip Okeyo, Felix Okoth, and Paul Lusesi ensured Nakuru's progress, where they will now face Kenya Harlequin in the fifth-place final.

Semis

13th place

Mwamba RFC 21-10 MMUST

Mombasa RFC 5-7 Kabarak

Challenge Trophy

Zetech Oaks 7-15 Daystar Falcons

KCB Rugby 22-12 Catholic Monks

5th place

Kenya Harlequin 24-5 Blak Blad

Nakuru RFC 20-5 Stallions

Cup semis

Nondies 15-5 Kabras RFC

Menengai Oilers 12-17 Strathmore Leos