Impala RFC brought their home crowd back to life on Saturday after grinding out a hard-fought 23–20 victory over Strathmore Leos at Impala Club, ending a two-match losing streak in the Kenya Cup.
The Gazelles had gone winless on the road in recent weeks, falling to MMUST and Kisumu RFC in back-to-back away fixtures, but returned home with renewed energy to claim their second home victory of the season.
Impala RFC opening
Strathmore, who came into the match in strong form, sat fifth on the table with 15 points and were fresh from a dramatic 34–31 win over Daystar. The opening exchanges reflected the evenly matched contest, with both sides testing each other early.
Impala struck first in the fourth minute when Warren Akaranga crossed over, although the conversion sailed wide. Strathmore responded almost immediately as Nahashon Owino grounded the ball to level the scores at 5–5.
The hosts continued to grow into the game and reclaimed the lead in the 23rd minute when Brian Ochieng went over for Impala’s second try, with Meshack Andale adding the extras.
Impala’s forwards then began to assert dominance, applying sustained pressure deep inside Strathmore territory. From a well-placed Andale kick that pinned the Leos back, quick hands created space for captain Tyson Okoth to dot down, though the conversion was again unsuccessful this being his fourth try in as many matches.
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
Strathmore stayed within reach through the boot of Arnold Muita after a breakdown infringement by Impala. Moments later, another penalty, this time against the visitors, allowed Andale to restore Impala’s cushion.
The Leos returned from the break with renewed urgency and spent long spells camped in Impala’s half. However, handling errors and breakdown penalties repeatedly halted their momentum.
Their persistence finally paid off when a patient build-up ended with Owino slipping through for his second try of the afternoon, though the conversion missed the mark.
Drama followed as Impala were temporarily reduced to 14 men after Okoth was penalized for holding on at the ruck. Strathmore immediately sensed an opportunity and, after sustained pressure, Cedric Sangwa powered over from close range. Muita’s conversion narrowed the deficit to just three points.
The final minutes were tense as Strathmore launched one last assault inside Impala’s 22. But resolute defending from the Gazelles and a calm close-out saw Impala hold firm to seal a vital 23–20 victory.
