Mark Mshila opens up on what cost them victory in Kenya Cup opener
Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 27.11.24. | 15:08
Kulabu went toe-to-toe with Quins, trading early tries and showing grit in the first half, however, as the game progressed, the momentum shifted decisively in favour of the hosts
Mwamba RFC began their Kenya Cup campaign with a 55-25 loss to Kenya Harlequin at RFUEA Grounds, but head coach Mark Mshila remains optimistic about the road ahead.
Despite a spirited start, Mwamba struggled to maintain momentum against a clinical Quins side, leaving them empty-handed in their opening fixture.
Kulabu went toe-to-toe with Quins, trading early tries and showing grit in the first half. However, as the game progressed, the momentum shifted decisively in favour of the hosts.
“We started well and went toe-to-toe with Quins, but we let them back into the game. At some point, the game ran away from us, but the boys gave their all.
As we discussed with the coaches, we noticed a lot that needs to change and some personnel we need to bring in,” Mshila admitted.
Despite the loss, Mwamba remains committed to their target of securing a playoff spot.
“Our target is the playoffs. We believe we are still in it. Unfortunately, we didn’t get a point here, but we will pick up,” Mshila asserted.
Up next for Mwamba is a clash with Nondescripts, and Mshila hopes their familiarity with the home pitch will give them an edge.
“We will play Nondies here, and at least we are familiar with the pitch. It should be an interesting one,” he said.
Mshila emphasized the importance of teamwork in navigating the challenges ahead.
“It is still a team effort. All the coaches have to sit together and give a plan. If adjustments need to be made, it will be done collectively, including input from the captain. Then we move forward as one,” he explained.
Mshila’s ties to Mwamba run deep. His father, David was one of the club’s founding members, and the former played for the team between 1999 and 2002 before transitioning to coaching.
His return to Mwamba following a successful stint with KCB Rugby marks a new chapter for the club as they seek to rebuild and compete at the highest level.
He took over from Kevin Wambua, who previously led the side alongside Joseph Odindi. Under his guidance, Mwamba will aim to reignite their competitive edge and turn the season around.
“It’s just the beginning and we are ready to move forward as one,” he concluded.
