Oliver Mang'eni confident of 'taking back KCB to where it belongs' ahead of Kabras semis clash
Reading Time: 2min | Thu. 13.03.25. | 14:45
The Bankers’ last Enterprise Cup triumph came in 2017, adding to their previous titles in 2004, 2007, 2015, and 2016
Five-time Enterprise Cup champions KCB RFC are preparing for a high-stakes semi-final clash against arch-rivals Kabras Sugar at the ASK Showground in Kakamega on Saturday, 15 March.
With the memory of last weekend’s 25-17 Kenya Cup defeat to the Sugarmen still fresh, the Bankers are eager for revenge as they chase their first Enterprise Cup title since 2017.
Speaking to Mozzart Sport during a training session at the KCB Sports Club in Ruaraka, head coach Oliver Mang’eni, who this season took over from longtime tactician Curtis Olago, has expressed confidence in his squad’s progress, noting that his charges have what it takes to reclaim their place at the top.
“In a short period, we have made drastic changes and improvements in the squad. Last weekend’s display from the boys was encouraging.
Our game plan is working, and our tactical approach is proving worthy. We want to continue playing like this and, hopefully, take KCB back to where it belongs—winning titles,” Mang’eni offered.
The Bankers’ last Enterprise Cup triumph came in 2017, adding to their previous titles in 2004, 2007, 2015, and 2016.
However, they fell short in last season’s final, losing 32-20 to Kabras.
This weekend’s semi-final provides an opportunity not only to overturn last year’s disappointment but also to make a bold statement under their new coach.
Mang’eni’s sentiments were echoed by the team’s captain Jacob Ojee who noted that they are now hungrier than ever.
“I am happy with the boys who have shown great hunger for titles this year. Together with the technical bench, we are working hard to win silverware.
The young blood who have joined the team have added a new dimension to the squad, and I hope that we will clinch titles at the end of the season,” Ojee said.
Isaac Njoroge is expected to start at the back following his impressive performances in the Kenya Cup, while key players such as Austin Sikutwa, Emmanuel Opondo, Laban Kipsang, Andycole Omolo, Wilhite Mususi, Griffin Musila, Emmanuel Silungi, and Nick Okullo are also set to feature for the Ruaraka-based outfit.
Tyson Maina, a key figure in Mang’eni’s team will miss the match after his concussion in the last fixture at the same venue.
