KCB RFC players celebrate after emerging runner up as Ingo 7s concluded in Kakamega County
Kenya Harlequins made clear their intention to stay on top of the 7s Rugby League after forcing KCB to a runner’s finish in sudden death with a 17-12 victory, as the second leg of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit concluded at the A.S.K Kakamega Showgrounds.
The Bankers scored two consecutive tries through Elvis Olukusi and made one successful conversion to take the lead. Nonetheless, Quins responded shortly with Albert Alela’s try and Amon Wamalwa’s conversion to end the first half at 12-7.
Despite a headstrong start by KCB who dominated the first half, Quins were quick on their feet in the second half, establishing a 12-12 deadlock at full-time through the dynamic duo of Lucky Dewald and Brian Ratila.
The result was quickly turned into a win after Dewald stunned the opponents with a winning corner post try for a five-point difference. The Quins’ scrum half who was also the tournament’s Most Valuable Player attributed the win to adequate team preparation that boosted the team’s confidence leading to the victory.
“We started quite slow with stiff competition from KCB but we were able to come from behind and take the win”, said Dewald. The Quins Team Captain Jan Remke further backed up his sentiments.
“Coming into this tournament, our objective was to get to the finals same as last week (during the Christie 7s in Nairobi), and we are happy that we emerged victorious. We came short of a win at home and have finally turned that disappointment into a victory”, added Remke.
Kenya Harlequins celebrate together with SportPesa Partnerships Manager, Willis Ojwang, after winning Ingo 7s.
Resident team Kabras Sugar RFC settled for third place after a 22-7 win against Nakuru RFC while Catholic Monks finished fifth after defeating the Western Bulls 26-10. Strathmore Leos took home the Challenge Cup trophy with a 19-14 win over Blak Blad while Homeboyz RFC established a 34-0 dominance over Mwamba RFC.
“We expect more of the same competitive rugby action with Dala 7s. There is a lot of logistical work and organization put into the tournament for its success and SportPesa’s sponsorship will boost the success of the tournament.” said Thomas Odundo, CEO, of Kenya Rugby Union.”
Shamberere RFC won the ladies event after a 12-5 victory against Black Rock. The SportPesa National 7s Circuit shifts focus to the Lakeside for Dala 7s set for the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium in Kisumu County on August 17 and 18.
SportPesa’s Partnerships Manager, Willis Ojwang, shared similar sentiments lauding the clubs for a good show. “We aim to help grow the game by giving young talent space to thrive and we’ve seen this come out well with a lot of interest on the game both on and off the pitch. There is great momentum as the SportPesa National 7s circuit picks up steam and we look forward to a lot of impact and motivation for players many of whose aim is to get into the national team”, said Ojwang.
The 3rd leg promises an enthralling encounter with a probable return of some of the Shujaa players who were on national duty at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
