Blak Blad coach Bernard Rotich credited the team’s effective execution of their game plan for their impressive performance that saw them knock out Impala Floodlit record holders KCB Rugby.
The narrow 9-8 victory at Impala Club ended KCB’s dominance, as they had won the preseason tournament five times in a row.
Blak Blad coach Rotich explanation
Speaking to Scrummage Africa after the headline-grabbing win, Rotich explained that the strategy was to control possession and put pressure on KCB both with and without the ball.
Blak Blad players in a past action. Photo Courtesy/Denis Acre-half
“We executed our game plan, which was to maintain possession and apply pressure on them. Whenever they had the ball, we put them under pressure with our defence and tackling techniques. There was a moment when they seemed to be coming back at us, but we adjusted and secured the win,” Rotich said.
Rotich acknowledged the frustration of missing penalty kicks but maintained his trust in the team’s ability to deliver. He emphasized the need to improve their kicking ahead of the semifinals, which he expects to be even more challenging.
EDITOR’S PICKS:
- Follow us on Scrummage Africa FB
- Mike Friday advice to Kenya 7s
- Kanyanya’s transition from rugby pitch to police beat
- 1 step forward, 2 back: A story of Kenya Rugby Referees
“It was frustrating to miss those kicks, but I trusted the boys and told them to keep pushing. This week, we’ll probably focus more on that because as we move into the semis, the games will be tighter, and we can’t afford to miss those opportunities,” he added.
Rotich also described the win as a confidence boost, noting that the team is aiming for a better finish than their third-place result in the previous Floodlit tournament.
Blak Blad players after a past match. PHOTO/Blak Blad
“It’s definitely a confidence booster. Since we finished third last time, our target is not to place lower than that. We haven’t had many extensive training sessions, but we hope to play a stronger game in the semis,” he concluded.
Blak Blad will face the Menengai Oilers in the semifinals.
