What an amazing start the Impala Saracens have had today! Enduring the long trip from the freezing Nairobi temperatures and straight into a world of fast paced rugby and swiftly changing weather conditions that is Kisumu. Indeed, coach Nick Odera has managed to prove his worth at being master brewer. He has not only gelled youthful exuberance with mature experience, but also offered the much needed gusto to propel the team forward. Leon Adongo, Lameck Dunde, Davis Makori, Derrick Mayar, Joash Ngesa, Kelvin Kabole, Richard Sidindi, Nato Simiyu, George Okowa, Quinto Ongo, Israel Soi and David Dinda totally owned the County of Kisumu.
Resolution Impala Saracens 19-12 Kabras Sugar Rfc
Derrick Mayar, Derrick Mayar and even more of him. The young man who did not fair on well in the 15s season came out wheels blazing for the 7s circuit. He posseses a sharp eye for the gain line. Breaking tackles is his specialty. Try scoring is his trade. He scored all 3 Impala tries in the first half. Nato only complimented 2 of them for a 19-0 lead. Worth noting is the laxity that crept in the second half. Kabras were blessed to have a Kenya Harlequins exile in the name of Nick Barasa. Nick ran rings through the Gazelles play making for Levi Ochieng and Kevin Juma for a 19-12 score at the buzzer.
Resolution Impala Saracens 24-0 Blak Blad
Richard Sidindi began the riot setting the platform for an Israel Soi hat-trick. How well can we describe Nato Simiyu’s instinctive skill? Can we call him a tactical genius? He is the man who won this match. His fluid combination with Sidindi, Dinda and Soi was no match compared to the Blak Blad backline. Although Derrick Mayar took a knock in this match, Impala assured themselves of a quarter final berth. Next stride was topping the pool. A match that had to be decided by going through the Strathmore Leos.
Resolution Impala Saracens 14-12 Strathmore Leos
The last day of the match was going to be played under acrid clouds. With expectant fans gathered to witness who would top pool D, it was all going to who would win. And the rain won! The Gazelles would be quick off the blocks. A Richard Sidindi try broke the ice. The subsequent conversion accurately struck to send the score board reading 7-0 in favor of Impala. Strathmore’s Adrian Opondo would reply with a non-converted try at the corner flag. Then the rained happened! Perfect opportunity for Richard Sidindi to drill in another try. Nato’s boot would provide stellar performance stretching the lead to 14-5. Amidst the rain, Strathmore managed a converted try. Full time: 14-12 Impala!
Main Cup Quarter Finals:
Sunday 10th August 2014: Resolution Impala Saracens vs Western Bulls