Zetech Oaks eyeing Nationwide title after impressive season

Zetech University's rugby squad, known as "The Oaks," is gearing up for the 2023/24 Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Nationwide title clash against the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM) Marines.

The eagerly anticipated finals are scheduled for Saturday, June 8, at the RFUEA Grounds.

Securing a direct slot in the KRU Championship league, The Oaks demonstrated their prowess by overcoming favourites Project 61 with a commanding 23-9 victory in the semifinals.

Originally slated for May 11, the finals were rescheduled by the Kenya Rugby Union League Fixtures Committee to this weekend, coinciding with the Enterprise Cup showdown between KCB Rugby and Kabras RFC.

In an exclusive interview with Mozzart Sport, Oaks’ coach, Ramsfield Matekwa, expressed confidence in his team's ability to deliver exceptional results.

He noted that the postponement provided an opportunity to further refine their skills, ensuring they entered the finals in peak form.

“The boys are in good shape and in high spirits. During the break, we maintained an active training regimen,” Matekwa shared.

Emphasizing their focus on all-round skills, with particular attention to passes and breakdowns, Matekwa assured fans of an electrifying display of rugby.

“Our winning formula is rooted in rigorous training and smooth execution on the field. We are indebted to our loyal supporters, and in today's match, we aim to make them proud,” he affirmed.

Having been relegated from the Championship League in the previous season, the Oaks are determined to secure an immediate return.

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Their resilience was evident in their hard-fought victory over former Kenya Cup side Kisii RFC in the nationwide quarterfinals, followed by ending Project 61’s winning streak to secure a spot in the finals.

With an undefeated season on the line, the Oaks are poised to cap it off with silverware.

Matekwa has entrusted former Kenya U20 player Anderson Oduor with the fullback role, supported by Ken Wafula and Mark Demba on the wings.

The forward pack features Evans Kiluva, Stanley Mbuthia, and Michael Kamunge in the front row, with Mike Wekesa, Isaac Odhiambo, Fidel Chimwani, Gilbert Odhiambo, and Jack Mangale completing the lineup.

The midfield sees Clement Washila and Bryan Ondego partnering up, while Johnson Wafula and Jack Mangale handle the scrum-half and fly-half duties, respectively.

Facing off against The Oaks, TUM Marines also clinched promotion to the KRU Championship league after a hard-fought 26-23 victory over Sigalagala Pirates in the second nationwide semifinal.

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TUM Marines squad:

1. Philip Atichi 2. Brian Sawayi 3.Nelson Obedde 4.Byron Omondi 5.Elias Gitonga 6.Eliazar Aaron 7.Peter Wanjala 8.Seif Mohammed 9.Henry Otieno 10.Moses Forore 11.Ephrem Gwako 12.Hillary Onyango 13.Ian Natembea 14.Baraza Bright 15.Ezra Mumbo

Replacements: 16. Noordin Abdhalla 17. Ken Nyakundi 18. Brian Odhiambo 19.Anthony Kipkemoi 20.Migel Steve 21.Neville Obongita 22.Joe Rachillo 23.Leon Odero