Kabras Sugar to renew rivalry with Menengai Oilers in Kabeberi Sevens quarterfinals

Menengai Oilers'Beldad Ogeta (left) in action against Kabras Sugar during Dala Sevens finals.[Washington Onyango,Standard]

Kabras Sugar RFC is set to reignite their rivalry with Menengai Oilers in the quarterfinals of the Kabeberi Sevens, following a dramatic group stage finish on Saturday.

Currently leading the National Sevens Circuit, Kabras narrowly secured their place in the last eight after a challenging day in Group A.

Kabras Sugar struggled early on, finishing second in their group behind Strathmore University Leos, who handed them a 22-17 defeat.

Despite this setback, the sugar men bounced back to secure crucial victories over Impala, winning 31-7, and Nakuru RFC, with a 22-12 triumph, ensuring their progression to the quarterfinals.

Meanwhile, Menengai Oilers showcased their dominance in Pool C, delivering commanding performances throughout the day.

They thrashed Stallions Rugby 43-0, humbled Kisumu RFC 43-7, and capped off their pool matches with a 30-7 victory over the Catholic University of East Africa (CUEA) Monks, earning a top spot and setting the stage for a quarterfinal showdown against Kabras.

This upcoming clash will be a repeat of the Dala Sevens final played last weekend in Kisumu, where Kabras emerged victorious with a 24-5 win over the Oilers.

Speaking about the team’s mixed results on Saturday, Kabras coach Felix Ayange remained optimistic.

"We had a slow start, but the boys showed great character to bounce back. We know the Oilers will come hard at us, especially after the Dala Sevens final. We need to stay focused, tighten our defense, and execute our game plan better to advance further," Ayange stated.

The quarterfinal lineup for the Kabeberi Sevens promises an action-packed day, featuring some of Kenya’s top rugby talents.

Strathmore Leos, fresh off their victory over Kabras and topping Pool A, will face fellow varsity side Catholic Monks. Both teams have consistently reached the Cup quarterfinals this season, making for an exciting university derby.

In the second quarterfinal, KCB Rugby, who topped Pool D with nine points, will take on Daystar Falcons, marking Daystar’s first quarterfinal appearance of the season.

Finally, Kenya Harlequin will clash with Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) to complete the lineup.

With all teams eyeing the Kabeberi Sevens title, the quarterfinals promise to deliver thrilling encounters as clubs vie for supremacy on the National Sevens Circuit.