Hosts Impala RFC have retained the same side that beat KCB last weekend for today’s Kenya Cup final against Kabras Sugar (4pm). Constant Cap will take charge of the final and he will be assisted by john Bosco Muamba and Victor Odour.
The last time the two sides met in Kakamega, Kabras emerged victorious beating Impala 25-13 but Impala director of rugby Fred Ollows is looking forward to an exacting final from his charges led by captain Duncan Ekasi and the ever-green Nato Simiyu. Ollows said there are no major changes to make during the training but they have opted to stick to their plan though they will approach the match based depending on the conditions on the pitch. “We just kept to our usual routine. This final will be played based on weather conditions and we are prepared for both—dry or wet. We will be ready,” he said. Last week, the pitch at Impala was flooded but the host club still managed to win 8-7 over defending champions KCB and Ollows says the tactics for wet conditions remain the same.
It’s been an impressive season for Impala, who have beaten all the big boys on their way to the final and Ollows is certain they can deliver tomorrow. He knows the expectations are too high for his side but he admits Kabras will be the team playing under pressure, owing to their huge budget. “They have a huge budget; five times more than Impala. They were in last year’s final and thereafter did a massive recruitment, and the pressure will be on them to win the trophy,” he added.
Kabras beat Kenya Harlequin 19-5 on their way to the final and they have made only one change to their side with Max Adaka starting at back row. Adaka started last weekend’s match from the bench due to injury.
Kabras started on a low note and at some point head coach Michael Bishop was given four weeks to turn around the team’s fortunes. Adaka has been sensational for Kabras this season and will be the man to watch alongside fullback Jone Kubu and scrum half Edwin Achayo. Midfield duo of Nick Barasa and Fabian Olando brings the much needed experience as well as Lock Antony Ogot.
Impala looked a bit shaky with their line out against KCB and it’s one area the sugar men might have an upper hand. The two sides remain even at scrum and it’s expected to be a close final.
Meanwhile, third place play off will see KCB take Kenya Harlequins take on RFEUA grounds. The match was earlier scheduled for Railways Club but the decision has since been reversed.