Nakuru RFC ended their seven-match losing streak in the Kenya Cup by picking up their maiden win of the season, beating Kisumu RFC 32-22 at Nakuru Athletics Club.
The Wanyore had struggled through seven consecutive losses, but with a recent sponsorship boost, they were determined to turn their season around.
Nakuru RFC opponents run
Kisumu RFC, on the other hand, was chasing back-to-back points to keep their hopes of retaining top-flight status for a second consecutive season alive.
Nakuru RFC were the first to score, with veteran forward Edwins Makori crossing the try line. However, their conversion attempt went wide.
Things took a turn for Kisumu early on as they were reduced to 14 men. Darrell Omondi was shown a yellow card for tapping the ball, leaving his side at a numerical disadvantage. Despite this, the Brave Hearts responded with a try from forward Joseph Wanjala, although their conversion also went wide, tying the scores at 5-5.
Nakuru RFC regained the lead through Fredrick Odongo, who touched down for their second try. Javan Otieno converted, putting Nakuru ahead.
The Wanyore were then penalized in their own half for a high tackle, and Wanjala, who is on loan from Kabras RFC, capitalized on the opportunity to score a try, bringing the score to 12-10. The conversion attempt again went wide.
Felix Okoth stretched Nakuru’s lead further, crossing for two tries, which brought the score to 22-10 in their favor.
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In the second half, veteran Oscar Ouma, making his first start of the season, was set up by Fredrick Odongo to cross over for a try, pushing Nakuru’s lead to 27-10.
Kisumu RFC responded with a try from Omondi, narrowing the gap to 27-15. Otieno missed a penalty as the match entered its final stages.
Kisumu RFC earn a point
Kisumu’s Duncan Shigali showed great pace to beat Otieno and score a try, earning Kisumu a losing bonus point. Valentine Odoyo drilled in the conversion to make it 27-22.
However, Kisumu’s hopes of claiming an extra point were dashed when Nakuru RFC scored a final try to seal the game 32-22.
