After an exciting matchday four of the Kenya Cup 24/25 season last weekend, the action continues with match week five on Saturday 18, featuring six exciting fixtures in the top flight.
At the KCB Sports Club in Ruaraka, table-toppers KCB will look to extend their unbeaten streak as they host 10th-placed Nakuru RFC at 4 PM local time.
The Oliver Mang’eni-led side is soaring after securing four impressive wins at the start of the season, including a dominant 88-5 victory over South Coast Pirates, an 82-3 triumph against Kisumu RFC, a 43-8 win over Strathmore Leos and a crushing 80-22 defeat of Mwamba RFC.
This remarkable run has placed them firmly at the summit with 20 points.
Play here and stand a chance of winning the over Ksh 399 million SportPesa Mega Jackpot
In contrast, Simon Wariuki’s charges have struggled this season and will be seeking their first win.
Despite Nakuru RFC being considered the underdogs, Mang’eni acknowledged that the match will not be a walkover, as Nakuru remains a formidable side.
“We know for certain that Nakuru will challenge us with everything they’ve got. We must therefore be on top of our game and stay focused throughout the match to maintain our lead,” said Mang’eni.
He further added that while the team is enjoying a strong run, there are still areas that require improvement, particularly in defense and attack.
“Our performance has been impressive, but we know there are areas we need to improve especially in defense and attack. I have full trust in my players and I am confident we are prepared for the battle on Saturday,” he stated.
Ahead of the clash, Mang’eni has made several changes to his lineup to strengthen the squad as they will be missing four key players who are on international duty with the national 7s team Shujaa.
Players absent from the squad include Samuel Asati, Vincent Onyala, Floyd Wabwire and Festus Shiasi.
To compensate, Nick Okullo, Andy Cole Omolo, Elvis Olukusi, Manasseh Oduor, Rocky Aguko, Elphas Adunga, Michael Wamalwa, Brian Wahinya, Isaac Njoroge and Jenkins Kipruto have been included in the starting XV, replacing Jack Adero, Davis Chenge, Steve Wamai, Laban Kipsang, Peter Waitere, Michael Wanjala, Bob Muhati, and Elvis Namusasi.
Nakuru RFC, meanwhile, have made only three changes: Caleb Malemo replaces Ezekiel Waitere, Edwin Anunda moves into the starting XV, replacing Barry Opondo, and Gilbert Ochieng returns to the starting lineup in place of Paul Lusesi.
Elsewhere, with just a two-point difference, fifth-placed Nondescripts will host Kenya Harlequins at Ngong Racecourse for another thrilling Ngong Road Derby.
ALSO READ: Vincent Onyala returns as Shujaa name squad for Perth 7s
Fresh from defeating Quins last season, Nondies are determined to extend their dominance.
Meanwhile, Quins, currently in fourth place with 19 points and three bonus points from four games, will be keen to maintain their top-four position.
Second-placed Kabras Sugar will also be aiming for their fifth win as they welcome Mwamba RFC to the Forest in Kakamega. Blak Blad will travel to Nakuru to face Menengai Oilers, while South Coast Pirates will host Strathmore Leos at Seacrest in Diani, hoping to secure their first win of the season.
Kenya Cup matchday 5 Fixtures
Impala RFC vs Kisumu RFC – 4PM, Impala Grounds
South Coast Pirates vs Strathmore Leos – 4PM, Sea Crest Grounds, Diani
Kabras Sugar vs Mwamba RFC – 4PM, ASK Showground, Kakamega
KCB Rugby vs Nakuru RFC – 4PM, KCB Sports Club, Ruaraka
Menengai Oilers vs KU Blak Blad – 4PM, ASK Showground, Nakuru
Nondescript vs Kenya Harlequin – 4PM, Ngong Racecourse Grounds
