Defending champions Menengai Oilers staged a stunning late comeback to edge out KCB Rugby 16–13 in a pulsating Impala Floodlit Cup quarterfinal clash at the Impala Grounds last Saturday evening.
Oilers, who trailed for most of the game, sealed the win through a last-minute penalty from fullback Abutwalib Wesonga, a kick that sent the Nakuru-based side into the semifinals and left the Bankers heartbroken.
Forwards Coach Lawi Buyachi lauded his side’s grit and composure under pressure, praising the team’s execution in key areas despite the challenging conditions.
“A lot of things went well for us, despite the harsh conditions presented,” said Buyachi. “Our set pieces, scrums and lineouts were outstanding, and our field kicking and fielding game was also on point, especially in the second half when it mattered most. But more so, our mauling was great.” he told Two5four.
Buyachi, a former Kisumu RFC and South Coast Pirates coach, credited Oilers’ resilience for the turnaround.
“The boys were resilient and stuck to the script; we can’t take anything away from them,” he added.
“We go back to the drawing board and plan for a very organised Blak Blad side playing in conditions they are used to. It’s a knockout stage, and it’s always anyone’s game.”
The victory keeps Oilers’ title defence alive as they now set up a semifinal clash against Blak Blad, who stunned Kenya Harlequins 35–13 in another quarterfinal fixture.
Menengai Oilers will be looking to maintain their winning momentum as they aim to become the first team to retain the Impala Floodlit crown in recent years.
English