Resolution Impala Saracens stand 3rd on the 2017-18 Kenya Cup log after winning in a very physical Ngong Road Derby played at the RFUEA yesterday.
Kenya Harlequins began the match showing intent to quickly assert dominance. They took charge of the breakdown situation & controlled proceedings at the set piece, but Impala’s defence stood resolute, preventing any try from being scored. Impala would however cave in to Quin pressure midway through the first half to concede a penalty. Aaron Ofoyrwoth had no difficulties registering three points for the home side. Impala could have come back into the match earlier, had Nato Simiyu’s back-door pass hit centre Ishmael Mokaya. Nato however made good of his initial intention when on the second attempt, on a clever back door pass, found Mokaya’s hands. Mokaya’s core stability & relentless drive, saw him swat 3 defenders before scoring near the posts. His ensuing attempt at the posts flew wide.
Both teams were punished by referee David Orato when a brawl ensued. Impala’s Paul Mutsami & Quins’ Malcolm Onsando received yellow for participating in ungentlemanly activity. A lapse in defence opened up Eric Shikuku to score. The conversion attempt by Ofoyrwoth went wide. Impala’s Ian Minjire, who played impressively at fullback, confirmed his team’s hunger for the win when he ran past 3 Quins defenders to score his first try of the 2017-18 Kenya Cup Season. Quinto Ongo missed the conversion.
FT: Resolution Impala Saracens 10-8 Kenya Harlequins
Resolution Impala Saracens Backs Coach – Oscar Osir:
Never losing against Kenya Harlequins as backs coach is a record I hope to keep. Today was a team victory more than anything else. I am however not happy with how our backs executed. However, we defended well. It is a pity we have to talk about officiating and the referees’ strike. Kabras are an efficient side, they come from high altitude that will give them some form of advantage next weekend, but Impala’s attitude and temperament on attack and defence has improved massively.
Resolution Impala Saracens Veteran & Resolution Group CEO – Peter Nduati:
A derby is a derby. Whether you win by one point, it is still a win. I have solid belief that if the boys show the same temperament against Kabras next week, we will beat Kabras.
Resolution Impala Saracens Director Of Rugby – Fred Ollows:
It is an eeeeexcellent feeling! Kenya Harlequins started very well, but we soaked in the pressure & then introduced our style of play. Ian Minjire’s try was my highlight of the day. One hook pass – One Try! One would feel let down by the fact that we currently have a referee’s strike. I however choose to pick out the positives. David Orato officiated 2 games today, even after playing half a match for the Quins VANDALS . We are going to have to fix this at some point, but if not, the law book still allows for home teams to appoint referees.
