- Both Kabras and KCB are unbeaten this season
- KCB lead the standings with bonus point victories
- Kabras are the Kenya Cup defending champions
Kabras Sugar and KCB will face off on Saturday afternoon in a top of the table Kenya Cup clash a match that promises fireworks between the league’s two most exciting sides.
These two sides are in fine form heading into this clash. KCB are top of the log on 45 points, having registered nine bonus point wins in nine consecutive league outings to date. Defending champions Kabras Sugar are second on the log on 44 points, also having won nine from nine but have collected one less bonus point, and have conceded the least amount of points this season.
They both warmed up for this clash, a probable final before the final, with massive victories on Match Day 9.
KCB won on the road, defeating hosts Menengai Oilers 62-15 in Nakuru as Kabras Sugar registered a 47-6 home victory over Strathmore Leos in Kakamega.
The last meeting between the two sides took place at the same venue 51 weeks ago, KCB winning that clash 28-20 on 26 February 2022. Kabras would, despite the loss, proceed to win the 2021/22 Kenya Cup title.
Most dominant clubs in Kenya
That is now water under the bridge, and there is very little to separate the two most dominant club sides in Kenyan rugby over the past decade, both sides abundantly blessed with experience and talent within their rosters.
This game will be won and lost at the breakdown.
KCB assistant coach Daniel Mwanja says they expect a tough duel between these two sides, but remains optiomistic they can shine at home and cash in on victory.
“We expect a very tough match because Kabras is a very good side. We have prepared well for this game and know it will be one of tough margins. Whoever makes less mistakes will carry the day,” the tactician said.
He added; “We owe our recent victories and impressive run to adequate preparations during our pre-season. We prepared well and now enjoying the fruits. Kabras are a worthy opponent, so we do not take them for granted. Over the years, this clash has been mouth-watering, and I am certain the weekend’s encounter will not be any different. We are expecting an entertaining game.”
Aggressive forwards
Both sides have very aggressive loose forwards and they certainly will be engaged in the most volatile contests of the game as they look for a quick recycle while on the offensive.
They will also seek to apply defensive pressure and maybe force a significant number of turnovers and forced penalties.
The importance of both backlines cannot be overlooked. Kabras will took to the trio of Dukisa, Kubu and Brian Tanga to make inroads into KCB territory while the bankers will certainly look up to Asati, Mukidza and Adunga to ask questions of their opponents.
It definitely promises to be a hard fought fixture with pole position of the Kenya Cup log at stake for the victorious side.
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