KCB lock John Aswani powers the Kabras' defence during their Kenya Cup match on Saturday/HANDOUT Head coach Andrew Amonde wants the abandoned match between KCB and champions Kabras Sugar RFC replayed after heavy rain forced the encounter to be halted on Saturday.
The highly anticipated Kenya Cup clash was called off at halftime with the two sides tied 10-10 after persistent rain rendered the pitch unplayable.
Match referee Kevin Wambugu abandoned the match, citing concerns over player safety and the deteriorating condition of the pitch.
Speaking after the match, Amonde said he had been looking forward to the challenge of facing their biggest rivals and was disappointed the match could not be completed.
“I did not want the match to end in a draw, but the heavens opened up, and the pitchside conditions were bad, so we await the ruling from the union to see if there will be a replay,” said Amonde.
The former Kenya national rugby Sevens team skipper added that he was pleased with the way his side started the match. “We played well and put Kabras under pressure from the kickoff. You never know what would have happened in the second half, but I’m confident there will be an opportunity to replay this game at a later date before we go into the playoffs,” he added.
According to Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Kenya Cup Rule 13.6.4.6, if weather conditions prevent a match from being played or lead to its abandonment during the first half, the fixture should be replayed in accordance with the league and fixtures committee.
Meanwhile, Kabras coach Carlos Katywa praised his team’s resilience after recovering from an early deficit. “We started poorly against KCB, but credit to the leadership of this team—we fought back and tied the match. I believe my boys had the momentum heading into the second half,” he said.
Former Kabras skipper George Nyambua, who was playing only his third match of the season after a sabbatical, commended the youthful squad for standing up to the bankers.
“We have several injuries to key experienced players, but the young players who have come through put in a solid shift to wrestle the game away from KCB heading into half-time,” he said.
In other results, Menengai Oilers thrashed Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology Rugby 48-3, Nondescripts RFC beat Daystar Falcons 40-20, while Strathmore Leos edged Nakuru RFC 27-20. Kenya Harlequin FC also secured a 27-11 victory over Kisumu RFC. The match between Blak Blad RFC and Impala RFC was also abandoned due to heavy rain.
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