Kenya Harlequins, Kabras, and Oilers Impress in 2025 Driftwood 7s Opener

The 2025 National Sevens Circuit got off to a sizzling start on the sun-kissed turf of Mombasa Sports Club.

Reigning champions Kenya Harlequin, tournament favorites Kabras RFC, and 2022 NSC title holders Menengai Oilers all opened their accounts with convincing wins, setting the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested circuit.

Harlequins, under the leadership of head coach Patrice Agunda, began their title defense with a composed 14-7 win over KU Blak Blad. The match was a proper test of character, with Quins displaying the maturity and tactical discipline that saw them crowned 2024 overall champions.

Kabras Sugar RFC, another heavyweight and perennial title contender, sent an early warning with a 26-0 demolition of Nakuru RFC. The Sugarmen were electric from the onset with their blend of experience and youth squad.

Menengai Oilers, no strangers to silverware, brushed aside new boys Stallions Rugby 19-0, in a match that showcased both structure and flair. Captain Dennis Abukuse was in devastating form, opening the scoring with a try from a hard run before converting his own effort. Fortune Arturo added a second, slicing through the Stallions defense, and Brian Achacha iced the win with a final try that left the crowd on their feet.

Elsewhere, Kakamega based MMUST RFC put up a spirited fight but fell narrowly 10-14 to Mwamba RFC, while Catholic Monks pulled off a surprise 15-0 shutout of Impala RFC. Nondies, KCB Rugby, and Strathmore Leos also picked up opening wins, with Leos particularly dominant in their 28-0 rout of Kabarak University.

2025 Driftwood 7s Division 1 Round 1 Results

MMUST 10-14 Mwamba RFC
Kenya Harlequin 14-7 KU Blakblad – 9:20
Catholic Monks 15-0 Impala RFC
Kabras Sugar RFC 26-0 Nakuru RFC
Nondescripts RFC 19-0 MSC Rugby
KCB Rugby 24-14 Daystar Falcons
Strathmore Leos 28-0 Kabarak University
Menengai Oilers 19-0 Stallions Rugby¾