SCHOOLS

Vihiga High break final hoodoo to win maiden FEASSSA 7s, All Saints claim FEASSSA 15s

By Amanga collins

Posted on August 25, 2024

Vihiga High School sing anthem during Scrummage Katch 7s. PHOTO/Vicmass

Vihiga High School have made history by winning the FEASSA 7s Championship for the first time, with a decisive 26-0 victory over the KSSSA National 7s Champions in the final held in Mbale, Uganda.

In the 15s category, All Saints Embu captured their first FEASSA 15s title with a 9-3 victory over defending champions St Mary’s Kisubi.

This win is a significant turnaround for Vihiga High, who had previously been edged out by Bwake in the KSSSA 7s final, where Bwake won 19-14 at Kisii School grounds.

FEASSA 7s rematch

The two teams had drawn 7-7 in their earlier encounter during the East Africa games. However, Vihiga High proved superior in their final showdown.

Scrummage Katch 7s Champions Vihiga High School. PHOTO/Vicmass

Felix Apwoka, Brandon Lilumbi, and Victor Wawire, who scored twice, led Vihiga to their historic win, with three conversions adding to their tally.

In the semifinals, Vihiga High, the Scrummage Katch 7s Champions, defeated St Mary’s Yala with a 19-5 scoreline. Apwoka, Willison Tonya, and Wawire contributed tries to secure their place in the final.

Coach Abubakar Abdalla reflected on their long-awaited victory, emphasizing that their five-match winless streak in finals only fueled their determination. He praised the team’s discipline, adherence to their game plan, and execution of instructions for their success.

“Thank Almighty God, our supporters led by the principal, and the team for the gold medal. The team’s discipline on and off the pitch, sticking to our play structure, and executing instructions contributed to this win. Losing in five finals from last year made us more determined to win the trophy,” Abdalla told Scrummage Africa.

EDITOR’S PICKS:

In 15, three successful penalties were enough to secure the win, making All Saints the first Kenyan school to win the FEASSA 15s title post-COVID.

The previous 15s title was claimed by Kakamega School, which holds the record for the most National 15s championships.

All Saints Embu after claiming the KSSSA National 15s title. PHOTO/Tabby Nashipae

St Joseph Girls capped off their year with a triumph in the East African 7s, narrowly defeating Kinale 8-7. The Scrummage Katch 7s Champions have now added the East African title to their National 7s and 15s victories, ending their season on a high note.