USIU Martial edged Kabete Stallions 28-25 in extra time at Impala Club to book their place in the Impala Floodlit semi-finals.
The students were out for redemption after an early exit in the 2024 edition, while the Stallions were keen to build on their fine run from last season that saw them reach the final.
USIU Martial trail at break
Kabete Stallions went into the break leading 13-10, but USIU came back stronger in the second half to overturn the scoreline.
Hamfrey Kimeli slotted in a penalty to level matters at 13-13 before the students powered over through a maul after a series of pick-and-drives. The try was converted to hand them a 20-13 advantage.
Lawrence Ndung’u pulled one back for the Stallions, selling a dummy and beating his marker for a corner try, though he failed to convert, leaving the score at 20-18.
EDITOR’S PICKS:
- List of rugby prospects from high school
- Colman Were keen to redefine Kenyan rugby’s physical edge
- Follow Scrummage Africa on Facebook
- Collins Injera inducted into Fiji’s Rugby Town Walk of Fame
The Stallions kept the pressure on and were rewarded with a converted try off a backine move after a line-out to reclaim the lead at 25-20.
USIU responded with a late try to tie the scores and send the match into extra time.
USIU Martial in extra time
In the added period, Ndung’u’s drop goal attempt went wide, leading to a 22-drop out for USIU.
The students held their nerve, forcing a penalty which they converted to seal a 28-25 victory and progress to the semi-finals.
