Kisumu RFC looking to punch above their weight in Tisap 7s showdown

Kisumu RFC have strengthened their pursuit for improved performance when they make a short trip to the Eldoret Sports Club for Tisap 7s set for 2 and 3 September.

The Lawi Buyachi-coached gentlemen have had a rollercoaster of performances, with their highest being the Driftwood 7s when they qualified for the quarter final stage. The resilient men picked 10 points in Mombasa, before dropping to three points in Prinsloo and Christie 7s tournaments.

Speaking to Mozzart Sport, the burly Buyachi noted that he is no stranger to the Eldoret terrain, and will be seeking to capitalize on his charges' strongholds come Tisap. Buyachi was a guest coach at Eldoret RFC during the 2021 championship season.

Blak Blad eye improved performances in Tisap 7s

“We have performed beyond our expectations, a slow start in Dala then gradual improvement all the way towards Christies. I can say a lot of boxes have been ticked and we will keep punching above our weight,” Buyachi revealed.

The former South Coast Pirates coach also pointed out that some of his charges had been sidelined in the past tournaments due to injuries. Despite that, he noted that the two-week break provided the much-needed time for rejuvenation of the players. He was confident that they would step into the Eldoret Sports Club more motivated than ever.

“We picked some injuries after Christie 7s, and the break gave us breathing space to have that sorted. On matters training approach, we had some technical and tactical issues that needed polishing and we have tried to have those fixed. It is a tricky pool for us, and I believe the boys will come around,” the eloquent Buyachi told Mozzart Sport.

Buyachi’s confidence also stemmed from the presence of experienced players in his squad like Alvin Karoli who was part of the Chipu team that competed in the World Rugby U20 Trophy that took place in Nairobi from 15-30 July.

“As Kisumu RFC our strength revolves around teamwork, we always work as a unit to deliver the objective. However, it will be interesting to see Karoli who is returning from Chipu assignments. He has gathered some great experience that can ignite some spark to the team,” he offered.

Kisumu RFC have been placed in a tricky pool C alongside log leaders Kabras Sugar, Kenya Harlequins, and Daystar Falcons.

Despite the competitiveness of the pool, the visionary coach rallied behind his charges, expressing confidence in their abilities come Tisap 7s.

“It's been a while since I worked with such a group of brave young men, and I believe they will live up to their name, ‘brave hearts’, and play their hearts out in Eldoret,” he disclosed.

Kenya Harlequins are the only new faces in this pool. The rest faced off in Dala 7s, with Kisumu managing a win over Daystar Falcons. Kisumu RFC have not managed a win over Kabras RFC in all the three rounds they have met. They will be looking to break the jinx.