Resolution Impala Saracens will most likely go into this contest a humble side compared to their counterparts. After fighting to the 80th in a match filled with cards & injuries, the Gazelles have to go into this match with level heads, patience & immense discipline. Impala have been enjoying a brilliant season, but we all shouldn’t cancel out Homeboyz’ ability to rise up to ‘big matches’. Their win over Top Fry Nakuru RFC at the Jamhuri Showground and their recent humiliation of KCB at the RFUEA are but instances where they’ve proven dominance over ‘giants’. It was however very vivid during their tie with Mean Machine RFC, that frustration by the opponent can completely kill their momentum.
Impala will be missing the services of scrumhalf Samson Onsomu & flanker Paul Mutsami who picked injuries during the Ngong Road Derby last weekend. Impala Head coach Fred Ollows has opted to pull Robert Aringo to scrumhalf. Paul Oimbo returns to second row action after 3 weeks of absence. Joel Omer claims the eighth man position from Duncan Ekasi.
Interesting changes have been made to the back line. Ian Minjire who recently graduated from college comes in at blindside for Samuel Motari. Hand off Master Lameck Dunde replaces Kevin Ochami at 14. Billy Odhiambo & Sammy Oliech, outside center & fullback who’ve proven themselves over the past 2 matches maintain their positions.
The Resolution Insurance sponsored team, currently leading the Kenya Cup league, but only on point difference over Quins, will be keen on maintaining this position. It will however be interesting to watch how Mr. Webster William will perform on his first outing as Menengai Cream Homeboyz coach.
The Squad
Front Row: Stephen Juma, Kelvins Karani, Dennis Karani
Locks: Paul Oimbo, Simon Muniafu
Back row: Erick Kerre, Tyson Okoth, Joel Omer
Scrumhalf: Robert Aringo
Flyhalf & Captain: Nato Simiyu
Centers: Anthony Nyandigisi, Billy Omondi
Back three: Ian Minjire, Lameck Dunde, Samuel Oliech
Reserves: Daniel Ndome, Edgar Obino, Hosea Ngesa, Kevin Okeyo, Duncan Ekasi, Mohammed Omollo, George Okowa, Samuel Motari