Kabras RFC continued their dominance in Kakamega, defeating KCB Rugby 25-17 and retaining their top position in the league, extending their remarkable unbeaten streak to 39 matches in the Kenya Cup.
Kabras took an early lead when Kevin Wekesa capitalized on a lineout error, scoring the first try, which Ntabeni Dukisa converted for a 7-0 advantage.
KCB quickly equalized with Austin Sikutwa’s kick-and-chase try, followed by his successful conversion, leveling the score at 7-7. Dukisa then put Kabras ahead with a penalty, making it 10-7, but KCB responded with a try from Griffin Musila, giving them a 14-10 lead after Sikutwa’s conversion.
Dukisa’s penalties kept Kabras in contention, first narrowing the gap to 14-13 and then putting them ahead at 16-14. Sikutwa added another penalty for KCB, making it 17-16, but Dukisa’s third penalty before halftime allowed Kabras to lead 19-17.
In the second half, despite sustained pressure from KCB, Kabras extended their lead with another Dukisa penalty for 22-17. A near try was thwarted by KCB’s defense, but Dukisa converted yet another penalty, finalizing the score at 25-17. This victory secured Kabras the top spot in the 2024/2025 regular season with 52 points and an unbeaten record.
South Coast Pirates and Mwamba RFC Relegated
The South Coast Pirates faced a harsh reality, suffering a 35-0 defeat against Menengai Oilers. With this loss, the Pirates officially exited the top division, finishing last (12th place) with just 9 points.
Mwamba RFC managed a spirited 29-15 victory over KU Blak Blad however, results elsewhere sealed their relegation despite their efforts. This disappointing outcome marks a cruel end for Mwamba, a club with a rich history in Kenyan rugby, as they join South Coast Pirates in relegation after finishing 11th with 16 points.
Strathmore Leos and Kisumu RFC Survive the Drop
One of the weekend’s most shocking results saw Strathmore Leos narrowly defeat Kenya Harlequin 28-27 in a thrilling match that kept fans on the edge of their seats. The Leos, desperate to avoid relegation, displayed immense grit and determination, securing their place in the top tier by finishing 8th with 18 points.
Kisumu RFC also fought hard, achieving a crucial 17-14 win over Nondescripts, which ensured their survival in the Kenya Cup. They finished in 9th place with 17 points, just enough to avoid relegation.
Nakuru RFC also rose to the occasion, clinching a 21-17 victory over Impala RFC to complete their great escape. Nakuru concluded the season in 7th place with 18 points, while Impala RFC finished 10th with 16 points.
Playoffs Set as Oilers and Nondescripts Secure Key Spots
With the regular season concluding, attention now turns to the playoffs. Menengai Oilers secured a home playoff after finishing 3rd with 47 points and will face KU Blak Blad, who finished in 6th place with 26 points. The winner of this clash will advance to the semifinals to take on KCB Rugby, who ended the season in 2nd place with 50 points.
Nondescripts have booked a playoff match against Kenya Harlequin, who finished 5th with 34 points. The winner of this matchup will advance to face defending champions Kabras RFC in the semifinals. Nondescripts secured 4th place with 35 points, earning a crucial playoff berth.
The Kenya Cup playoffs are scheduled for March 22, followed by the semifinals on March 29. The Kenya Cup Final is set to take place on April 12, 2025.
