Menengai Oilers John OKoth fends off Tony Fidens of Nondies during a recent league match/HANDOUTMenengai Oilers will be hoping to lay down a marker when they face rivals KCB RFC in a blockbuster Kenya Cup encounter in Nakuru on Saturday.
The hosts are joint top of the table with champions Kabras Sugar RFC on 40 points, while the bankers sit second on 39 as the league enters a crucial phase with playoff positioning at stake.
Both sides remain unbeaten and boast perfect records, having won all eight of their matches this season, setting up a high-stakes clash between two title contenders.
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The teams shared last season’s honours, with KCB edging Oilers 29-27 in the pool phase before Oilers exacted revenge in the semi-finals with a dominant 31-8 victory.
Speaking on Friday, Oilers head coach Gibson Weru said his side expects a tough contest, but they are ready for the challenge.
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“There is a lot at stake between us and KCB — two very strong sides fighting for the big prizes in the 15s calendar. It will come down to execution and winning several battles across the pitch,” said Weru.
He added that conditions could play a key role in determining the outcome.
“Territory and possession will be key. As you are aware, the weather patterns are very different with the ongoing rains, so winning the forward battle will be important, as well as the collisions and the set-piece,” he added.
Weru will rely on skipper Ibrahim Ayoo, Jadah Abdon, Fortune Arturo and Samuel Were to anchor a powerful and dynamic forward pack. In the backs,
Samuel Mwaura, Kenya Sevens' international John Okoth, Daniel Kipchirchir and Abutwalib Wesonga will be key attacking threats.
KCB have also named a formidable side featuring Simbas' international Andy Cole Omolo, Wilhite Mususi, Nick Okullo and Kenya Sevens' co-captain George Ooro in a mobile forward unit.
In the backs, Samuel Asati will pull the strings alongside Festus Shiasi, Brian Wahinya, Bob Muhati and Isaac Njoroge.
Elsewhere, the race for playoff places and survival continues across the league.
Strathmore Leos, currently fourth, travel west for a varsity derby against Masinde Muliro University in Kakamega.
Fifth-placed Daystar Falcons are away to Blak Blad RFC.
Kisumu RFC will hope to ease relegation fears when they face Nakuru RFC.
Impala RFC host Kenya Harlequin in the Ngong' Road derby, while Kabras Sugar entertain Nondescripts at the Kakamega Showground.
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