Menengai Oilers set sights on back-to-back Impala Floodlights titles

Reigning Impala Floodlights champions Menengai Oilers are gearing up for a stern test as they begin their title defense against five-time champions KCB Rugby in the quarterfinals on Saturday, 25 October at the Impala Club.

The Oilers made history last year by emphatically lifting their maiden Floodlights crown after thrashing hosts Impala 42-3 in the final.

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Their triumph was even more remarkable given that they played with 14 men for most of the match following a red card to Dennis Abukuse.

This year, the Nakuru-based side faces an even tougher route to retaining the coveted title.

Standing in their way first are the Bankers, who are hungry to reclaim lost glory. KCB’s dominance at the Floodlights tournament came to an abrupt end last season when they were stunned by Kenyatta University’s Blak Blad in the quarterfinals, ending their five-year reign.

The Bankers also endured a disappointing 15s campaign, finishing without a trophy and watching Oilers snatch the Eric Shirley Shield (ESS) title for the first time in history.

However, KCB have looked rejuvenated in the shorter format, reaching all finals of the National 7s Circuit and emerging as overall champions.

The big question now is whether they can carry that form into the 15s version and past the resilient Oilers.

Speaking to Mozzart Sport, Oilers assistant coach Lawi Buyachi remained confident that his side was well-prepared for the challenge ahead.

“The preps have been intense. No major injuries, and the lads are psyched up to go defend their title. Our territorial game was wanting, but we have tried to spend more time on it and I’m sure we will implement it come game day,” the former Kisumu RFC tactician offered.

Buyachi went on to note that his charges have worked hard on improving their individual skills and conditioning, and are aware of what awaits them against the formidable KCB outfit.

Giant Slayers Blak Blad eyeing another big upset in Impala Floodlights quarterfinals

“We give KCB the respect they deserve. They are a well-coached side with immense individual brilliance. Their physicality and efficiency in the green zone is A1, but we are prepared,” he continued.

Despite entering the competition as defending champions, Buyachi admitted the tag brings its own pressures.

“Of course, we were underdogs last season. Heading into this as defending champs has its own challenges,” he averred.

Despite the pressure, the gaffer is confident that the team will rise to the occasion.

“But our goal remains the same, to win every available trophy,” he concluded.

Defending their Impala Floodlights title will serve as a springboard for the team as they seek to dominate the upcoming Kenya Cup season. Last season, they reached the final but narrowly lost 27-26 to Kabras RFC.