Strathmore Leos put on a clinical display to defeat Mwamba RFC 21-7 in the final and emerge champions of the inaugural Ruff and Tuff 7s tournament.

The one-day event took place on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at the Ngong Racecourse Grounds in Nairobi, drawing top rugby talent ahead of the upcoming sevens circuit.

The university side stamped their authority early in the match with a blistering start. Victor Mola opened the scoring after a quick offload from Elton Amalemba, and Brian Mwendwa converted to hand Strathmore a 7-0 lead.

Amalemba then crossed the line himself before the break, with Mwendwa adding the extras to extend the advantage to 14-0 at halftime.

Sealing the win

Mwamba’s hopes of a comeback were dashed in the second half when a misjudged kick allowed Mwendwa to pounce and score Strathmore’s third try.

His flawless kicking brought the score to 21-0, effectively sealing the contest. Mwamba did manage a late consolation try through Mark Gitonga, which was converted, but it wasn’t enough to deny Strathmore a commanding victory.

Strathmore’s triumph capped off a day of solid performances, including a 21-19 opening win over Nakuru and a 24-5 dismantling of Blak Blad.

Despite a loss to Kenya Harlequins in the final group game, they held their nerve in a tense semifinal draw with Nondescripts to secure a spot in the final on points difference.

The Ruff and Tuff 7s served as a crucial warm-up tournament for teams preparing for the 2025 National Sevens Circuit, which kicks off with Driftwood 7s in Mombasa on July 26–27. Strathmore Leos will now head into that competition with renewed confidence and momentum.

Elsewhere, Kenya Harlequin beat Nondescripts 24-10 to take third place, Blak Blad edged Nakuru 19-12 for fifth, while Impala RFC finished seventh after a 50-0 demolition of USIU.