Ofafa Jericho rugby coach James Kaili says they can handle the pressure of defending their regional crown when the Nairobi region secondary school games quarterfinals begin at Jamhuri High School today.
Ofafa face a revitalised Nairobi School side and Kaili relishes the challenge.
“We have zero pressure going to the knockout stage. We don't see ourselves as defending champions but as equal competitors,” added Kaili.
"Our focus is on development, not winning. I will encourage the boys to do their best in the match and, most importantly, have fun. Remember they are kids," said Kaili.
"The most important thing for them at this age is to develop their talent and have fun too. However, this doesn't mean the team is not ready for the knockout stage. We will give a good account of ourselves on the pitch."
They will not underestimate Nairobi, who are a good side.
"We respect them a lot. They have a great history of rugby as a school and it's one of the favourite teams to lift the Nairobi region title this year," said Kaili.
"They have a top coach in Allan Wanjohi, who knows how to win games. It's going to be a closely contested match. It can go either way. UpperHill, Dagoretti and Lenana are also among the favourites."
Ofafa had a 100 per cent record in the pool phase, thrashing Utawala 64-0, Embakasi Garrison 75-0 and Aquinas High 51-0.
However, Kaili expects a different ball game in the quarters.
“It will be tough. Every team wants a ticket to the nationals and they are well-prepared. We must be at our best," he said.
The winners of the Ofafa vs Nairobi school match will face either Lenana or Jamhuri in the semifinals.
The winners of the Upper Hill vs Highway duel will face either Dagoretti or Aquinas in the last four.
The semifinals are slated for Friday and the final on Saturday.
The national championships will be held in Machakos County on April 6-14.
