KCB Rugby delivered a commanding performance against Kenya Cup newcomers South Coast Pirates, thrashing them 95-5 at KCB Sports Club on Saturday evening.
The Pirates, who earned promotion to the Kenya Cup after defeating Impala RFC in last season’s KRU Championship final at Seacrest, made history as the first team from Kwale to feature in the top tier. However, their debut proved challenging against the experienced Bankers.
KCB Rugby start off
Under coach Oliver Mang’eni, KCB opened the scoring in the 11th minute through centre Bob Muhati, with Isaac Njoroge adding the conversion for a 7-0 lead. Skipper Jacob Ojee, captaining the side for the first time, extended the advantage with back-to-back tries in the 15th and 17th minutes, with Njoroge converting the second to make it 19-0.
KCB Rugby in past Impala Floodlit match. PHOTO/Scrummage Africa
Eric Miheso, making his debut, added to the tally before KCB secured a commanding 38-0 lead at halftime.
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In the second half, Muhati completed his brace in the 44th minute, and lock Andy Cole Omollo, fresh off his Kenya Simbas debut, scored a converted try to widen the gap.
The Pirates found a glimmer of hope when Collins Kabayo crossed over, becoming the first player to score a Kenya Cup try for the team. However, they missed the conversion.
KCB Rugby players huddle. photo/ KCB Rugby.
KCB continued their dominance with contributions from substitutes Austin Sikutwa and Lionel Ajeliti. Brian Wahinya added his name to the scoresheet in the 65th minute, with Ajeliti converting.
Isaac Njoroge also scored, followed by tries from Emmanuel Opondo, Wilfred Waswa, and Ajeliti, sealing an emphatic victory for the Bankers.
KCB’s clinical display sets the tone for their Kenya Cup campaign, while the Pirates will look to regroup and build on their historic debut.
