KSSSA: Kinyua reveals secret behind All Saints glory in rugby 15s

All Saints Embu High School defied all manner of odds to clinch the 2024 Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) Rugby 15s title held last week at Machakos School.

The side defeated defending champions Butula Boys 12-10 in the closely contested final.

Interestingly, the Benson Kinyua-coached side won the match without scoring a single try.

The team's flyhalf Josephat Mbatia was the man of the match as he contributed to the nine crucial points that propelled All Saints to their victory. Amos Anyango's three points added the sugar.

Upset galore as KSSSA Term One games conclude in Machakos

The team was placed in Pool A which saw them lock horns with St Patrick’s Iten, Kisii High School, and Butula Boys. They started their title hunt with a 27-8 victory over their fellow Saints before narrowly defeating Kisii 6-3.

They ended their pool campaign with a narrow 12-9 win over Butula Boys to proceed to the semifinal.

At the semifinal stage, the spirited Saints defeated Lenana 33-10 to cruise to the competition’s final where they locked horns with Butula.

The final was a repeat of the 2023 final in Eldoret where Butula defeated them 38-0 to win their maiden title. This time, Kinyua’s charges managed sweet revenge.

KSSSA: Kitondo High School wants more after national games success

Kinyua attributed the victory to the team's fighting spirit.

“It is not my first time to have a team in the final. I had settled for the second position for long enough and wanted to change this year. Things have changed. I told the boys that it was all about having a positive mindset and being skilful. They utilized everything and were not tired from the first game,” he told Mozzart Sport.

How Dr. Aggrey won the 2024 KSSSA basketball title

Kinyua also, noted that the lack of injuries also contributed to their win.

He emphasized that it was high time for people to recognize that rugby was not solely confined to the Western region but thrived across various parts of the country as well.

“I did not have major injuries. It is mind over body that won us the match. Today, rugby is not only based in Western, it is everywhere. Believe in your kids and they will match your expectations,” he offered.

The team will look to sharpen skills in readiness for the Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSSA) Rugby 15s games slated for August.