Mwamba's Aldrine Adanje on the charge during the MET Sevens held at the KCB Sports Ground/HANDOUT Mwamba RFC coach Paul Murunga wants his charges to tighten their defence and improve game management as they prepare for the George Kabeberi Sevens at RFUEA Ground this weekend.
The hosts head into their home tournament with renewed confidence after finishing third at the Dala Sevens a fortnight ago, but Murunga believes there is still plenty to polish if they are to make a deep run on home soil.
“We did well at Dala Sevens after a poor start in Nakuru at Prinsloo. This being our home tournament, we hope to tighten up our defence and be solid across the two days of competition,” said Murunga.
The former Kenya Sevens and Under-20 coach said the team had enjoyed a productive training period, with the focus on correcting the mistakes that cost them at Dala.
“It’s an opportunity for us. We had a good week of training from last week and this week, polishing a few areas which let us down in Dala. It’s a young side, and we are learning very fast the rigours of the Sevens game,” he added.
Murunga is particularly encouraged by the side’s fitness and mental strength, qualities he believes will be crucial in the demanding two-day tournament.
“Fitness-wise, we are in good condition; we are very strong, and the mental fortitude is quite strong. Even when we are trailing, the boys never lose their spirit, and it bodes well heading into this weekend,” he said.
Mwamba face a demanding Pool B assignment, having been drawn against Strathmore Leos, Nondescripts and CUEA Monks, who have returned to Division One after winning the Division Two title at Dala.
“We played Nondies in Kisumu and beat them. Strathmore are a tough side and will pose a threat, while Catholic Monks bring exuberance of youth. All in all, we will take one game at a time, and our target for Saturday will be to qualify for the Main Cup quarters,” said Murunga.
Pool A features Kenya Harlequin, Daystar Falcons and Kisumu RFC, while Dala Sevens runners-up Menengai Oilers headline Pool C alongside Zetech Oaks, Blak Blad and Mombasa RFC.
Defending champions KCB Rugby headline Pool D, where they will face Kabras Sugar, MMUST and Nakuru RFC. The tournament has received a major boost after Tusker announced a Sh1.5 million sponsorship towards its organisation and delivery.
The partnership will also enhance the entertainment experience around the tournament, including the official after-party, under the Tusker Na Rugby platform.
Tusker Sports Brand Manager Keza Mpyisi said the Kabeberi Sevens offered the brand another opportunity to bring rugby fans together through sport and entertainment.
