Menengai Cream Cheetahs are the 2024 Rugby Super Series champions.
Cheetahs emerged victorious in the Rugby Super Series final, defeating the KCB Bank Lions 18-10 in a thrilling matchup at Nairobi’s RFUEA Ground on Saturday.
This victory secures their third title, making them the second team after the Rhinos to achieve this feat.
The Rugby Super Series returned this year after a decade-long hiatus, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
The Cheetahs, champions in 2004 and 2006, showcased their resilience and determination, reminiscent of their 2006 final where they rallied from a 22-3 halftime deficit to defeat the Lions 32-25.
In the 2024 edition, the Cheetahs finished second to the Lions at the close of pool play. However, they entered the final with a psychological advantage, having edged the Lions 18-16 in match day two action at the Nakuru Athletics Club on May 11.
The Cheetahs secured their spot in the final by finishing second overall with two wins and one defeat.
Wily scrumhalf Samson Onsomu played a pivotal role throughout the campaign. His versatility, intelligence, and technical proficiency were instrumental in guiding the two-time champions to the final. Head Coach Lawrence Buyachi leaned on Onsomu’s experience to lead the Cheetahs to another victory over the Lions, this time with the coveted Rugby Super Series crown at stake.
The goal-kicking prowess of Quinto Ongo also proved crucial. Ongo delivered clutch performances in the victories over the Buffaloes and Lions, making him a key figure in Saturday’s final. His precision and consistency added valuable points and steadied the team’s progress.
For the Lions, backrow player Obat Kuke was a standout performer throughout the tournament. His physical prowess, mental sharpness, and technical skill were indispensable, often making the difference between a solid defensive stand and a dynamic offensive push. Despite Kuke’s efforts, the Lions fell short in the final.
Levi Amunga’s flawless kicking display on match day three, where he nailed five penalties in a 20-5 victory over the Kabras Sugar Buffaloes, was another highlight for the Lions. His strategic vision, decision-making abilities, and precise kicking were key components of the Lions’ gameplay. However, even his exceptional skills were not enough to secure the title for the Lions.
In the end, the Menengai Cream Cheetahs’ combination of tactical acumen, individual brilliance, and team cohesion led them to a historic victory, crowning them the 2024 Rugby Super Series champions.
This triumph not only adds to their legacy but also marks a significant moment in the tournament’s storied history.
Rugby Super Series Previous Winners
2003 Rhinos
2004 Cheetahs
2005 Buffaloes
2006 Cheetahs
2007 Rhinos
2008 Lions
2009 Rhinos
2010 Rhinos
2011 Rhinos
2012 Rhinos
2013 Ndovu
2014 Kifaru
2015-2023 Not Played
2024 Cheetahs
Source: KRU
