Blak Blad pulled off a stunning 27–25 victory over Strathmore Leos to book a place in their maiden Kenya Cup semi-final in a thrilling varsity derby played at Strathmore Complex on Saturday.
Blad will now travel to Kakamega to face defending champions Kabras RFC in the semi-finals next weekend.
Blak Blad chase
Heading into the clash, Blad held the upper hand in the head-to-head, winning seven of the last 12 meetings, while Leos had claimed five. Earlier this season, Leos had edged Blad 32–30, setting up another tightly contested encounter.
Blad, who had fallen to Menengai Oilers in their last two playoff appearances, were determined to break the cycle, while Strathmore were chasing a return to the semi-finals for the first time since the 2021/22 season.
Blad made a dream start, scoring from a series of pick-and-drives through Achadius Khwesa, with Daniel Oyoo converting for a 7–0 lead. Leos responded on their first visit inside the 22, with Arnold Muita slotting a penalty to cut the deficit to 7–3.
Muita continued to be reliable from the tee, adding another penalty before Blad responded with a three-pointer to lead 10–6. Muita’s accuracy saw Leos edge ahead 12–10, and he added further points from the boot to keep Leos in control. Oyoo’s penalty ensured Blad trailed by just two points heading into the break.
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 Walk of fame
In the second half, Blad came out firing, crossing for a converted try through Obat Kuke to take a 20–15 lead. Leos responded immediately, with Collins Maina diving over in the corner to level the scores at 20–20.
Momentum swung again as Elton Amalemba crossed over to give Leos a 25–20 advantage. However, Blad refused to back down, piling on pressure in the closing stages.
Their persistence paid off with a late try in the corner by Benjamin Rugar to level the scores at 25–25, before Oyoo calmly slotted a difficult conversion from a tight angle to hand Blad a dramatic 27–25 lead.
Blad then managed the final moments smartly, playing in the right areas to seal a famous win and progress to the semi-finals.
