Dala Sevens defending champions KCB RFC kick-started their title defence with convincing wins to qualify for the tournament’s knockout stages set for Sunday.
The bankers saw off a spirited Kenyatta University (Blak Blad) 24-0 in the morning fixture before ripping off Homeboyz 38-5 in the second fixture at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium, Mambo Leo.
“We need to make a statement from the word go. This is why we put the right players on the pitch, and everyone can see that this is a totally different KCB. I am convinced that as the competition progresses, we will continue beefing up and showing out true colours,” noted KCB RFC 7s Coach Andrew Amonde.
The team has been strengthened by the return of Samuel Asati and Festus Shiasi, who demonstrated their class in the opening day of the 54th edition of Dala 7s. However, Vincent Onyala is still missing in action. He is expected to make a return at the Kabeberi 7s next weekend.
Currently, KCB RFC is sitting third in the overall National Sevens Circuit standings with 32 points. A win for KCB at the 2-day tourney will see them move up the ladder.
Captain Levy Amunga said: “I am happy with the return of key players after finishing their 10-day mandatory rest following their participation in the 2024 Olympics. The team is stronger than before, so I believe we are well poised to retain our crown.”
KCB will play the Ngong-road side Nondescripts in their last match today that will determine if they will top pool B.
On the other hand, Kabras Sugar humbled Stallions Sevens 21-0 to also make a perfect start before seeing off Kisumu RFC 22-5 and seal a place in the last eight.
Derrick Ashiundu, Erick Cantona and William Muhanji crossed over the white wash for the sugar men in their opening match.
The Christie Sevens champions and Kakamega Sevens bronze medallist headline Group C alongside MMUST, Stallions and hosts Kisumu RFC.
“We played well in the first match. We controlled the game and we are going to take it a game at a time,” said Kabras sevens coach Felix Ayange.
