Strathmore Leos' Thomas Opiyo races past Brian Kilonzo and Brian Omondi of KCb during a recent match/HANDOUT
Strathmore Leos coach Wills Ojal believes shoring up the defence will be crucial as the varsity side chases a home quarterfinal in next month’s playoffs.
The Madaraka-based side have climbed the standings with three recent wins – a 43-39 victory over Kisumu RFC, 20-10 against Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), and a tight 34-31 win over Daystar Falcons – to sit fourth on 26 points. However, a negative points differential could prove decisive in the final stretch.
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“Our points differential is -148 due to heavy losses against KCB, Oilers, and Kabras. For the next two games against Nakuru and Quins, we must ensure that defensively we are aligned and don’t concede points. It starts with one-on-one tackles, especially in the middle and wider channels,” Ojal said.
The coach also praised the impact of mid-season signings, Andrew Matoka from Impala, Reagan Juma from KCB, Maxwell Ongaria and Abdulmalik Mboko.
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“Our business was spot on. The players who have come in have added value, and performances have been excellent since the start of the new year,” he added.
Ojal believes securing a home quarterfinal would be a significant advantage.
“Playing at home will be key – in front of our fans, in familiar surroundings and conditions. Heading into the final two games, we need to maximise opportunities and win,” he said.
The Leos are locked in a tight race for the final three playoff spots. Blak Blad RFC sit fifth on 23 points, Daystar Falcons sixth on 21, and Nakuru seventh on 17.
Ojal expects more twists in the battle for playoff positions and survival.
“Everybody is fighting for a position, whether it’s playoff qualification or survival. We need to be at our best in the final two weeks to secure a playoff spot,” he said.
Kabras lead the standings with 45 points, followed by KCB on 43 and Oilers on 40.
Meanwhile, MMUST and Kisumu RFC are battling to avoid relegation, sitting 11th and 12th with 10 and 8 points, respectively.