Kisii RFC and Mean Machine  in action at Cardinal Otunga High School/ANGWENYI GICHANA

JKUAT Cougars coach Smith Muhoya has labelled Saturday’s top-of-the-table clash against Mwamba Rugby Club as a de facto play-off in the race for promotion.

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The two sides meet in a high-stakes KRU Championship showdown, with a home semi-final spot — and a clearer path to the Kenya Cup — firmly on the line. “This is one of the most important games for us this season. A win will assure us of a home semi-final, which is an advantage in our journey to the Kenya Cup,” said Muhoya.

The Cougars head into the fixture on a seven-match unbeaten run, a streak Muhoya insists has been built on discipline and hard work.

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“It has not been by luck. It has taken hard work and determination. To beat Mwamba, we must be strong in defence, avoid mistakes in our half, and be clinical in execution.

Tactical awareness will be key,” he added. Muhoya also confirmed his squad is at full strength following a two-week break, with players who picked up knocks in their win over South Coast Pirates in Diani now fully recovered.

“The home fans and family will be there to support us. We don’t want to let them down,” he said.

 Elsewhere, USIU-A Martials travel to face Mombasa RFC at the Mombasa Sports Club in what promises to be a stern coastal examination.

Martials' coach, Tom Lagat, acknowledged the challenge of playing in Mombasa. “It’s always a tough trip. They are very strong at home with the crowd and weather behind them, and we respect that. However, we have prepared well, and the boys understand what is at stake,” said Lagat.

He welcomed back Don Ochieng, Humphrey Kimeli and Elvis Kadima from injury and called for composure in testing conditions.

“We expect a spirited and disciplined performance. If we execute our plan and stay composed, we give ourselves a real chance. A win will take us a big step closer to safety, and that’s our target,” he noted.

KRU Championship Fixtures

Catholic Monks vs NYS Spades (Catholic University)

Karen Zetech Oaks vs South Coast Pirates (Zetech, Mang’u Campus)

 Homeboyz RFC vs Kisii Rugby (RFUEA)

Mean Machine vs Western Bulls (University of Nairobi)