Rugby 15s defending champions All Saints from Central Region secured their spot in the semi-finals of the 2025 Brookside Kenya Secondary School Sports Association (KSSSA) following a hard-fought 9-3 victory over Upper Hill School from Nairobi in a tense Pool A clash at the Shimo la Tewa School Grounds in Mombasa County. 

Fairly sharp forward Josphat Karanja was the hero of the match, confidently slotting in three penalties to give the cup holders all their 9 points, boosting their hopes of retaining the coveted trophy.  

Upper Hill put up a brave fight and ended up managing a consolation penalty through Michael Kari. 

A visibly elated All Saints head coach Benson Mwenda admitted that overcoming the Nairobi side was no easy task but credited his team’s grit and resilience for the victory. 

“Today’s match was very difficult and extremely physical, but we managed to find our composure and adapt accordingly to win. The weather was not favourable either, but the boys showed character by rising to the occasion,” stated Mwenda. 

Mwenda acknowledged the high level of competition in this year’s edition, noting that beating any team is challenging because they came well-prepared and hungry for victory. 

“Every game feels like a final because everyone wants to beat the defending champions. Our main goal is to fight tooth and nail to ensure the trophy stays in the Central Region.

The pressure is there, but I take it positively; it pushes me to create a winning environment that inspires and builds confidence in my players,” concluded Mwenda. 

Meanwhile, Kisii School from Nyanza triumphed over Coast Region champions Marafa with a 20-5 victory, while Vihiga from Western Region had to dig deep to overcome a spirited Bwake School from Rift Valley, winning 5-3.