Strathmore Leos coach Willis Ojal believes mental fortitude will be key at this weekend's Embu Sevens.
The varsity side were knocked out by Menengai Oilers in the Christie Sevens semifinal last weekend, falling 24-19.
Ojal is keen to bounce back and narrow the gap on KCB, who lead the log on 63 points, with his charges on 58.
“At the halfway stage, mental fortitude is key for us. Everyone knows how each team is playing, and we are well aware that lapses in concentration can be counterproductive. I believe the boys will have to be on their toes throughout to ensure we can go all the way,” said Ojal.
The varsity side had mixed performances, losing to minnows Zetech 19-12 in their opening match before bouncing back to beat Mombasa Sports Club 26-5 and edging hosts Quins 26-24 to finish second in their pool.
In the Cup quarters, they made light work of Catholic University Monks, winning 29-7.
Ojal lamented the suspension of co-captain Shem Okola, and an injury to Stanislaus Shikoli blunted their efforts during the narrow loss to the Oilers.
“We were short of two key players, and that halted our momentum, but I must credit the boys; they stayed in the fight until the final whistle. We were able to bounce back and win the bronze medal against Quins," said Ojal
The Leos are in Pool C of the Embu Sevens, where they face a resurgent Impala, Kabras, and Kabete Stallions.
"Impala have some of our former players, so they will be tough to beat. Kabras were relegated to the Bowl last weekend and will be seeking to prove a point, while the Stallions beat us last season in Kakamega."
Ojal said his mantra to the team is one game at a time. "We are not getting ahead of ourselves. Sevens is very unpredictable, and we have to stay on our guard throughout to ensure we stay in the hunt for the overall crown,” added Ojal.
Standings
KCB 63
Strathmore 58
Oilers 47
Quins 39
Kabras 35
Monks 35
Nakuru 33
Nondies 27
Falcons 23
Impala23
