Kenya Cup deserves bigger attention from sponsors, says Okwemba

Koyonzo rugby head coach Eliud Okwemba says the only way to improve the quality of the Kenya Cup league is by having more sponsors pouring money into the competition.

In an interview with Citizen Digital on Friday, Okwemba said the quality of the league going is top notch and deserves more attention from corporate institutions, which would consequently increase competition among the teams hence a positive ripple effect.

“We can all see the level of rugby in the country has grown and it’s not fair that Kenya Cup doesn’t have a sponsor. The only teams that are doing exceptionally well are the ones with sponsors. Others are struggling, not because they can’t do better, but because of financial limitations.

“I appeal to potential sponsors to come on board and support the game, while leveraging on this big product called Kenya Cup,” said Okwemba.

This weekend, the now biggest derby in the Kenya Cup – the RAI derby pitting defending champions Kabras RFC and Menengai Oilers is on, and Okwemba has credited the growth of the derby to sound management from both clubs.

‘The derby has become so exciting because the two teams get players from High Schools, they develop together and stick together for a long time. This means they understand each other well. Considering they have sponsors who are brothers, I see it growing bigger in future,” added Okwemba.

His sentiments have been echoed by Kibabii University Head Coach Peter Wamoto.

“They play good rugby, they have great fan base and they are well disciplined. They also have a very good technical bench and admirable drive of great talent. That is what makes it a great game to watch,” stated Wamoto.

Elsewhere, KCB Rugby, in their bid to maintain the top spot, will host Impala RFC at KCB Sports Club. The bankers are eager to maintain their perfect record, having won all their matches so far while picking up bonus points.

Nakuru RFC will welcome Mwamba RFC to Nakuru Athletic Club. Both teams are fighting for survival, and this match is vital for their hopes of staying in contention.

Nondies will take on South Coast Pirates at the Race Course along Ngong Road, with the Pirates aiming for their first-ever away win to keep their survival chances alive.

Blak-Blad will face Strathmore Leos at Kenyatta University Grounds in a match that could play a pivotal role in Strathmore's battle for safety.

Lastly, Kenya Harlequin will host Kisumu RFC at RFUEA Grounds. Kisumu, also fighting for survival, will be looking to secure a crucial win in this encounter.

KCB Rugby vs. Impala RFC- KCB Sports Club

Menengai Oilers vs. Kabras Sugar- Nakuru ASK

Nondescripts vs. South Coast Pirates-

Kenya Harlequin FC vs. Kisumu RFC

K.U Blak Blad vs. Strathmore Leos

Nakuru RFC vs. Mwamba RFC