Champs Oilers face tricky test against Nondies in Impala Floodlit final

Oilers' flanker Elkeans Musonye powers past Blak Blad defence during the Impala Floodlit semifinals last weekend/HANDOUT

Champions Menengai Oilers face a tricky test today when they meet Nondies in the final of the Impala Floodlit tournament.

Both sides had contrasting semifinal victories, with the Nakuru-based outfit making light work of Blak Blad, winning 42-21, while Nondies had to survive a nervy final few minutes to defeat hosts Impala 25-19 in the second semifinal.

Oilers coach Gibson Weru expects a tough final against a resurgent Nondies side.

“It will be a hard, hard-fought contest. Nondies have a solid pack with some excellent backs, and we are aware of the threat they pose,” said Weru.

The former Kenya Sevens playmaker said the key will be to ensure they play in the right areas and win the forward battle against Nondies.

“The match will boil down to territory and possession as well as execution. I am delighted with how the forward pack played against Blak Blad, and we need to replicate the same against a quality opponent like Nondies,” noted Weru.

Weru will go for his tried and tested players in the forward pack, which will include co-captain Amos Obae, Samuel Were, Fortuner Arturo, and Ibrahim Ayoo in a star-studded lineup.

In the backs, the evergreen Samuel Onsomu partners the fleet-footed Samuel Mwaura in the half-back combination, while Samuel Ovwamu, Beldad Ogeta, and the reliable boot of Abutwalib Wesonga at fullback will be key.

On their part, Nondies, who are aiming for their fourth title, and coach Moses Wanyaga said they are relishing the battle.

“We have had a good week of training. We know they are a quality side, but we want to go all out and win and give us momentum as we go to the Kenya Cup in a fortnight,” said Wanyaga.

Key players for the white shirts will be skipper Steven Odhiambo, Ryan Odua, and Charles Omondi, alongside Zach Marrow upfront, while Ronnie Omondi, Lameck Ambetsa, and Tony Fidens will be the key actors in the backline.

Hosts Impala face Blak Blad in the bronze medal match, while KCB take on Strathmore Leos in the plate final.

The women’s final will be between Impala Roans and Mwamba, while the varsity category will be contested between United States International University and JKUAT.