Champions All Saints step up preps ahead of rugby nationals

All Saints Embu rugby team have intensified their preparations ahead of the national school games, which kicks off on Monday at the Shanzu Teachers College and Shimo La Tewa High School in Mombasa County.

Head Coach Benson Mwenda says they are aware of the threat posed by other contenders, saying sharp focus will be on them as the defending champions.

Determined to retain the title, Mwenda says there is no room for mistakes.

“We have really intensified our training and every stakeholder is giving their best knowing that as the defending champions, every team is training hard to beat us. However, they (opponents) must know it won’t be a walk in the park because we are determined to win the title again," said Mwenda.

All Saints who beat Butula High School 12-10 in last year's final to win the title are in the same pool with Serena Boys, Upper Hill and Mang'u High School.

While they are definitely the hot favourites on paper, Mwenda is cautiously optimistic.

“We look like we are the favourites to many, but we also know that every team that reaches the nationals is strong enough. It means they were the best in their respective regions, so we won’t take anything for granted," added Mwenda.

Mwenda is particularly keen on tightening his defense ahead of the Mombasa fiesta.

“A good defense is always crucial in such a competition, so that is an area we are trying to improve on everyday in training.

"We don’t want to be in a position where we concede easy tries in any game,” stated the Head Coach.