Former Kenya Cup champions KCB are wary of the threat posed by third-placed Menengai Oilers in Saturday’s showdown in Nakuru.
Speaking on Wednesday, KCB head coach Curtis Olago said they must tread carefully against the wounded Nakuru side, who lost 47-3 to champions Kabras last weekend.
“Oilers will be looking to bounce back to winning ways and we must, therefore, approach this match with a lot of caution,” said Olago.
The Thika Road side kept their unbeaten run intact with a 45-15 win over Quins last weekend. They are second on the table, just a point behind leaders Kabras’ 44. Oilers have 33 points.
Olago added: “Our objective is to gather momentum heading into the semis. This means we will have to win the remaining two league fixtures.”
KCB close the regular season with a clash against Kabras in Kakamega on March 9.
Skipper Griffin Musila praised the resilience of a KCB side in transition following the retirement of stalwarts like former national Sevens skipper Andrew Amonde and captain Curtis Lilako.
“I am proud of this group for performing at a high level throughout the season. We have a group of young and experienced players who are hungry to win the Kenya Cup title,” said Musila. “A win over Oilers will give us the confidence we need heading into the semis.”
Olago is expected to name a formidable lineup for the showdown with Musila likely to partner Oscar Simiyu and Wilhite Mususi in the front row.
The towering Andy Cole Omollo and Davis Chenge will be the second-row combination while Martin Owila, Felix Ojow and Peter Waitere are expected to feature in the back row.
Olago is likely to depend on Emmanuel Opondo and Brian Wahinya in the backs while Bob Muhati and Festus Shiasi should link up in midfield.
The back three should feature Darwin Mukidza, Austin Sikutwa and Lionel Ajeliti. KCB struck a double against Oilers last season with scores of 62-15 and 36-20.
