Mental strength, defence key for KCB ahead of Kenya Cup final showdown with Kabras

KCB skipper Bob Muhati evades two Nondies defenders during the Kenya Cup semifinal in Ruaraka/ HANDOUT

KCB RFC will focus on mental fortitude and defensive alignment over the next fortnight as they prepare for their blockbuster Kenya Cup final clash against defending champions Kabras Sugar RFC in Kakamega on May 9.

Speaking on Wednesday, head coach Andrew Amonde said the bankers are determined to correct the mistakes that cost them in the previous two finals against Kabras in 2023 and 2024.

“Mentally, we have to be ready for a big fight. We cannot afford to throw in the towel. We have to stay in the contest from the first minute to the last. This is what we have been fighting for the whole season and we want this title,” said Amonde.

KCB booked their place in the final after brushing aside Nondescripts 52-7 in last weekend’s semifinal, while Kabras thrashed Blak Blad 48-15 in the other last-four encounter. On defence, the former Kenya Sevens captain was clear on what his side must get right against the sugarmen.

“It will come down to getting the alignment right. Kabras have a solid attack with talented backs, so our one-on-one tackles have to be spot on to deny them getting to the gainline,” he noted.

Amonde said he would draw encouragement from their pool phase meeting earlier this season, which was abandoned at halftime with the scores tied at 10-10 after heavy rains at the KCB Sports Club.

“They refused to play in the second half citing the conditions, which according to me were favourable. But overall, I believe there are areas we can exploit come the final,” said Amonde.

KCB will also be boosted by the availability of their Kenya Sevens quartet of Samuel Asati, George Ooro, Festus Shiasi and Floyd Wabwire. “Yes, they have been cleared to play in the final and they are training.

They bring an X-factor to the team as well as experience, which will be vital for the final,” he added. KCB lost 19-9 in the 2023 final and 29-5 in 2024, with both matches played at the Kakamega Showground. However, Amonde believes his side has grown significantly since those defeats.

“Three years ago we were an inexperienced bunch of players, but we have now grown tactically, mentally and emotionally. There is growth in our structure and in our tactical acumen, and we hope we can finish the season on a high,” he said.