JKUAT Cougars shift focus to National Sevens Circuit after successful 15s campaign

JKUAT Cougars players celebrate during a recent match/FILE 

Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) Cougars coach Smith Muhoya is looking forward to a solid performance from his charges in the National Sevens Circuit.

“Hopefully, we will participate in most, if not all, the legs of the circuit. We shall continue building and developing players using the circuit,” said Muhoya.

Muhoya led JKUAT Cougars to Kenya Cup qualification and Mwamba Cup glory. He has now shifted focus to the National Sevens Circuit.

He said he is looking forward to a good display of rugby from his team in the circuit. The coach-cum-player says his players will take a rest before starting the 7s program. “With the 15s season done and dusted, the next order is to get some deserved rest for the entire group. We shall then reconvene for the 7s program,” added Muhoya.

The National Sevens Circuit will kick off on July 25 and 26 with the Prinsloo Sevens. JKUAT Cougars crowned their season by thrashing Mombasa RFC 60-12 to retain the Mwamba Cup on Saturday at RFUEA Grounds, Ngong Road. The club also qualified for the Kenya Cup alongside Mwamba RFC.

“Winning the Mwamba Cup was the icing on the cake. It means a lot to the entire group. Capping off an amazing season with the successful defence of the Mwamba Cup feels nice,” noted Muhoya.

On their emphatic 60-12 win over Mombasa, Muhoya said: “It was a good game of rugby. We came with an attack mindset and executed it well. This created some free-flowing rugby when on attack and got some quick tries. How we played summed up our season.”

At the same time, Makueni Ravens RFC has named Brezzneve Owiti as the head coach after long-serving coach Kennedy Munyao stepped down. Munyao, a former captain at the club, stepped down after failing to lead the team to the KRU Championship.

Owiti has been serving as the club’s assistant coach. “Owiti has played an instrumental role in the team’s recent development. His understanding of the club’s philosophy, commitment to player development, and vision make him well-positioned to lead the next phase of the club’s journey,” said a statement from the club.