Zetech Oaks coach lists ingredients for National 7s Circuit Division One survival

Fresh from sealing promotion to Division One of the National 7s Circuit, Zetech Oaks head coach Ramsfield Matekwa has outlined the key factors he believes will help his side retain their top-flight status throughout the 2026 campaign.

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The Oaks earned their promotion after a dominant display at the Prinsloo 7s, where they were crowned Division Two champions following an emphatic 41-0 victory over Kabarak University in the final played on Sunday, 26 July at Nakuru Athletic Club.

The triumph secured their place among elite teams, with Zetech now set to make their Division One debut at this weekend's Dala 7s in Kisumu.

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For Matekwa, consistency will be the biggest determinant of whether the Oaks can avoid an immediate return to Division Two.

"Consistency has been our biggest challenge because it goes hand in hand with player availability and continuity. This season, we started our preparations much earlier, and I believe that will make a huge difference," Matekwa told Mozzart Sport.

The coach is optimistic his players have what it takes to compete with the country's established sides and maintain their newly earned status.

"I am confident we will remain in Division One throughout the circuit. I have spoken to the boys, and everyone is positive. I believe everything will work out well," he said.

Having worked hard to secure promotion, Matekwa believes the squad has enough motivation to fight for every point during the circuit.

"The players have worked so hard to earn this Division One slot, and I know they will fight to keep it. We will take it one game at a time, and I am confident they will put in strong performances,” he said.

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The tactician also identified the areas his team must improve if they are to remain competitive against more experienced opposition.

"The key areas we want to improve are our open play, communication, and lineouts. If we can sharpen those aspects of our game, I believe we will be competitive throughout the circuit,” he pointed out.

Zetech's promotion capped a remarkable weekend for the club. In addition to lifting the Division Two title, Matekwa attained his World Rugby Level Two coaching certificate in 15s, marking another milestone in his coaching career.

The Oaks announced themselves as genuine contenders from the onset of the Prinsloo 7s final. Anderson Oduor broke through the Kabarak defense to score the opening try before another well-worked move produced a converted try for a 12-0 advantage.

A third unconverted try handed Zetech a comfortable 17-0 halftime lead before they completely took control after the break, running in four more tries and converting two to complete a commanding 41-0 victory.

Their reward is a place in Division One, where an immediate test awaits.

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At the Dala 7s, Zetech have been drawn in a challenging Pool A alongside KCB Rugby, Impala RFC, and MMUST Rugby.