The quarterfinal pairings for the 2024 Impala Floodlit Tournament have been confirmed ahead of the tournament’s kick-off, set for Saturday, October 19, at the Impala Club.
Defending champions KCB Rugby will renew their rivalry with Blak Blad from Thika Road in one of the exciting quarterfinal clashes. Nondescripts (Nondies) are set to face Strathmore Leos, while Menengai Oilers will battle Catholic Monks. Hosts Impala RFC will take on Mwamba RFC to wrap up the opening round.
Impala Floodlit pairings
The semi-finals are scheduled for October 26, with the tournament concluding on November 2. The event will also serve as a curtain-raiser for the new Kenya Cup season, which kicks off in November.
QUINTO ONGO ATTEMPTS A CONVERSION IN A PAST ACTION AGAINST STRATHMORE. PHOTO COURTESY/IMPALA SARACENS
KCB Rugby enter the tournament as the most successful team in its history, having clinched their 10th title last year after a thrilling 25-23 extra-time victory over Nondies. The win allowed KCB to surpass Mean Machine’s record of nine titles and extended their dominance, becoming the first team to secure five consecutive Floodlit Tournament victories.
Last year’s final saw KCB take an early lead with a try from Peter Kilonzo, converted by Darwin Mukidza for a 7-0 advantage. Nondies responded with two penalties from Calvin Sheunda, closing the gap to 7-6 by halftime.
EDITOR’S PICKS:
- Follow us on Scrummage Africa FB
- The story of Moreen Muritu
- Kanyanya’s transition from rugby pitch to police beat
- Mbeche’s epic ride in push for Eye Care awareness
In the second half, Mukidza extended KCB’s lead by slotting three penalties, though Nondies stayed in the contest with a penalty from Sheunda, bringing the score to 16-9. Nondies then leveled the match at 16-16 with a converted try by Nyaenya Moseti, forcing the game into extra time.
Western Bulls vs Impala RFC. PHOTO/Western Bulls
During extra time, Mukidza showcased his kicking prowess, adding three more penalties to give KCB a 25-16 lead. Nondies fought back with a converted try to make it 25-23, but KCB held on to secure the narrow win and claim their fifth consecutive title
2024 Impala Floodlit quarters
KCB Rugby vs Blak Blad
Nondies vs Strathmore
Menengai Oilers vs CUEA
Impala vs Mwamba
