South Coast Pirates RFC head coach Tony Lujesi Khadambi has unveiled his matchday squad ahead of a fiery Coast derby clash against rivals Mombasa RFC today at the Mombasa sports Club.
Khadambi, who has led the Diani based outfit to three consecutive wins since taking over the reigns as head coach, will be keen to extend his winning track.
The Pirates pack will be marshalled by Abdhala Mohamed, Sadala Mohamed and Jeremy Andati in the front row, with Alphonse Otieno and Kenya u20 international John Asega pairing up in the second row. The back row sees James Ainea, Benedict Wesonga and Ibrahim Nyongesa charged with winning the breakdown battles and providing go-forward.
At half-back, Anthony Abonyo links up with flyhalf Cedric Odhiambo, while the backline features Brian Maina and the ever present Joseph Musyoki on the wings, captain Charles Tendwa and Juma Mwaburashi are in the midfield, while speedster Kenneth Ommaset trusted with fullback duties.
The bench has Philip Atichi, debutant Noordin Abdhala, Timothy Osaji, Adnan Juma and Paul Angura covering the forwards. Ali Rashid, Tonny Oduor and Robin Odrua provide backline reinforcement, giving the Pirates options as the contest unfolds.
Adding extra spice to the derby is the subplot on the touchline. South Coast Pirates will come up against their immediate former head coach Kevin Amiani, who has since crossed over to rivals Mombasa RFC, taking up the role of assistant coach. Amiani’s intimate knowledge of the Pirates setup adds an intriguing tactical edge to an already emotionally charged fixture.
Mombasa vs pirates
1. Abdhala Mohamed
2. Sadala Mohamed
3. Jeremy Andati
4. Alphonse Otieno
5. John Asega
6. James Ainea
7. Benedict Wesonga
8. Ibrahim Nyongesa
9. Anthony Abonyo
10. Cedric Odhiambo
11. Brian Maina**
12. Joseph Musyoki
13. Charles Tendwa
14. Juma Mwaburashi
15. Kenneth Ommaset
16. Philip Atichi**
17. Noordin Abdhala**
18. Timothy Osaji
19. Adnan Juma
20. Paul Angura
21. Ali Rashid
22. Tonny Oduor**
23. Robin Odrua
TECHNICAL BENCH
Head Coach: Tonny Khadambi
BACKS Coach: Habib Zuga
FORWARD Coach: Kennedy Wambua
Physio: Lindah Rabuogi
Ass Physio: Mitchell
Team Manager: Cliphod Ogola
English