Resolution Impala Saracens hosts KCB RFC for one of the two Kenya Cup semi finals this Saturday. The hosts had a bye last weekend for finishing top of the regular season Kenya Cup log.
The Lions however had to fight for a slot in the semis last week after they finished 5th. They played Homeboyz RFC (4th) and won 25-8, at Jamhuri Park.
Director of Rugby Fred Ollows has made five changes, one positional, to the starting lineup.
The changes, from the Strathmore Leos match, see Simon Muniafu start at lock, Samson Onsomu at scrum half, Ian Minjire, left wing and George Okowa, fullback. Kenya international Vincent Mose moves to the right wing from fullback, in the Leos clash.
Muniafu and Onsomu were replacements at the Sarries last outing while Minjire and Okowa enter the squad from being uninvolved, the former with injury.
Kenya Sevens international Samuel Motari and young prop Neville Omondi enter the replacements bench. All other positions remain untouched.
“We are in good spirits and fully ready for this clash,” said Ollows. “The boys look energized as if we’re just beginning the season. Expect a hungry squad”
The last time the two teams met, the Sarries came out victorious 19-15 win at the same venue.
The winner of this match will play the winner of the other semi final to be played at the RFUEA Grounds between Kenya Harlequin FC and Kabras Sugar Rugby Club, at the same time.
The highest seeded side at the preliminaries will host the final.
STARTING XV
Stephen Juma, Kelvins Karani, Dennis Karani, Davis Makori, Simon Muniafu, Tyson Okoth, Paul Mutsami, Duncan Ekasi, Samson Onsomu, Nato Simiyu, Ian Minjire, Innocent Simiyu, Israel Soi, Vincent Mose, George Okowa.
REPLACEMENTS
Daniel Ndome, Neville Omondi, Erick Kerre, Joel Omer, Mohammed Omollo, Anthony Nyandigisi, Samuel Motari, Meshack Tunechi
