Kabras lead local sevens circuit league after Driftwood victory

Following Kabras Sugar’s historic win over Menengai Oilers over the weekend in the just concluded Dala Sevens, the Sugarmen now lead the National Sevens Circuit standings with 41 points from the first two rounds played.

Fijian-born Jona Kubu scored a sudden death penalty as Kabras Sugar narrowly edged out reigning National Circuit Champions Menengai Oilers 10-7 to clinch the coveted title in Mombasa.

Fans were left at the edge of their seats in the duel that had to go down into sudden death after a 7-7 draw in regular time with Kabras coming from down, Barry Robinson converting Kelvin Wekesa’s try, cancelling out Dennis Abukuse’s opener.

Kabras reached the final of the season-opening Dala Sevens in Kisumu, losing to the bankers, but went one better in Mombasa to clinch the Main Cup and assure themselves of the maximum 22 points from the Coastal tour.

On the other hand, Nakuru-based Menengai Oilers, who managed sixth place at Dala Sevens, now have 31 points after collecting 19 points in Mombasa.

In the semis, Oilers, the defending Circuit champions, had edged out the bankers 17-12 while Kabras had beaten Strathmore 12-7.

Kenya Cup heavyweights KCB who are being coached by former Shujaa captain Andrew Amonde came in third position after edging out Strathmore Leos 29-12.

Amonde however has said his charges will shift their focus to the upcoming Prinsloo Sevens in Nakuru as they seek to regroup during the much-needed break.

“We made costly mistakes in the semis knocking the ball a couple of times and poor handling which is uncalled-for and which we paid heavily. We have been exceptional in this competition despite our loss to a worthy opponent. It is now time to strategize, regroup and plan for the upcoming Prinsloo Sevens which is just three weeks away,” Amonde said.

Menengai Oilers Denis Abukuse was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament after an impressive performance during the two-day tournament.

The circuit takes a three-week break for the World Rugby Under-20 Trophy set to take place in Nairobi from July 15-30 before resuming on August 5-6 in Nakuru for the Prinsloo Sevens.