Catholic Monks edged closer to Kenya Cup promotion with a 28-14 comeback victory over Homeboyz Rugby in a playoff match at Catholic University, Karen Campus.
Both sides had been relegated from the Kenya Cup last season, and this encounter meant one team would remain in the second tier for another year.
Despite leading at halftime, Homeboyz allowed the Monks to stage a strong comeback, missing their opportunity to progress to the semifinals and confirming their stay in the KRU Championship.
In the first half, the hosts were the first to score, taking a 3-0 lead through Kevin Mburu’s penalty. Homeboyz responded with two penalties to gain a 6-3 advantage. Emmanuel Mbaka’s efforts ensured the visitors maintained their lead at the break.
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The second half saw Homeboyz extend their lead with the first try of the match, making it 11-3. However, Monks quickly responded through a try by Victor Omupere, which Mbaka converted to bring the scores to 11-10. Another penalty from Mbaka saw the hosts reclaim a narrow 13-11 lead.
Displaying resilience and dominance, Catholic Monks added another try through Patrick Vien, with Brian Nyamboki converting to extend their advantage to 20-11.
Homeboyz earned a penalty, which Juma Brayana successfully slotted in to reduce the gap to 20-14. However, Monks remained relentless, securing another penalty conversion to stretch their lead to 23-14.
Victor Omupere sealed the victory for Monks with his second try of the match, concluding the game at 28-14 and boosting their promotion hopes.
