The 2024/25 Kenya Cup regular season is reaching a dramatic climax this weekend, with the South Coast Pirates facing a critical must-win showdown that could determine their fate in the league.
Currently positioned at the bottom of the table with only nine points, the Diani-based team must secure a bonus-point victory against the Menengai Oilers while hoping for favorable outcomes in other matches to avoid relegation.
Ahead of the pivotal fixture, Pirates head coach Kevin Amiani emphasized the magnitude of the encounter:
“This is our biggest game of the season. We understand the stakes, and the boys are prepared to fight for survival. We respect the Oilers, but this is about proving that we belong in the Kenya Cup.”
The Pirates have faced a challenging debut season, with their only victories coming at home against Strathmore Leos (15-8) and Nakuru RFC (17-0). Now, they are up against an Oilers team eager to regain form before the playoffs.
The battle for survival is not unique to the Pirates. The league standings after week 10 reveal a fierce contest at the bottom of the table, with Strathmore Leos sitting in ninth place with 13 points, Kisumu RFC also in tenth place with 13 points, and Mwamba RFC in eleventh place with 12 points. The South Coast Pirates currently occupy twelfth place with only 9 points. While Strathmore Leos and Kisumu RFC have a slight edge, they are not entirely safe. Mwamba RFC is also in jeopardy and must produce a significant result. For the Pirates, the task is particularly daunting as they need to secure a full five points and rely on favorable results from other matches.
Menengai Oilers currently occupy third place in the league standings with 42 points. Despite suffering recent losses to top contenders KCB (29-27) and Kabras (20-14), they remain a formidable opponent and will be keen to build momentum as they approach the playoffs.
South Coast Pirates host the Oilers this Saturday at the iconic Estadio de Seacrest from 3 P.M.
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