Kabras are not under pressure as they prepare to face rivals KCB in a Kenya Cup final on Saturday at Kakamega Showground, head coach Carlos Katywa has said.
This will be the seventh final between the two giants. The South African, who led the sugar millers to the 2022 and 2023 titles, said his boys are relishing Saturday’s fight.
“It has been a good season but it means nothing if we can’t get the job done against KCB. It will be tough final but we know what they are bringing to the table. We are prepared for them,” added Katywa.
When the two met in the pool phase last month, the Kakamega-based side grabbed a hard-fought 14-10 win in the rain-drenched match. They know which areas to improve.
“We had a problem with our lineout on that day and even struggled against the Oilers. This is an area of concern and I have told my players to keep it simple from the hooker to the lifter and jumper,” noted Katywa.
He described KCB as a formidable side, well-coached and with a lot of experience.
“We have had some great battles with them since I arrived as a coach,” added Katywa.
“When you look at players like Wilhite Mususi, Oscar Sorano, AndyCole Omollo and Felix Ojow in the forward pack and their back three, you realise how good they are.”
Focus this week has been to ensure the players get the basics right and iron out weaknesses in their game plan.
“We have two training sessions on Thursday and we have a video review session to polish up a few areas like our defence,” he said.
Weather conditions could play a key role on Saturday with Kakamega experiencing heavy showers this week. They have to be well prepared for such kind conditions.
“We have to be well prepared for the weather come rain or shine,” he said.
Katywa was tight-lipped on selection on the starting 23 ahead of the final on Saturday.
“A couple of players are carrying minor injuries and niggles but we will see how they respond in the next 24-48 hours,” he said.
