Strathmore Leos ace Gabriel Ayimba was full of joy after he helped his team to seal progression in the ongoing Driftwood Seven events at the Mombasa Sports Club on Saturday, July 26, 2025.

The son of the renowned rugby coach, James Ayimba, termed it a worthy cause after he came in fast from an exam to come and feature for the team and earn a slot in the Main Cup quarter finals.

Leos topped a pool consisting of Memengai Oilers, Stallions Rugby, and Kabarak University.

He expressed his elation for a worthy sacrifice, exuding optimism that such teamwork helps push the team to greater heights.

“We hope for the best going into the quarter finals. I will be having another exam on Monday. So I hope we can win on Sunday and get me in the mood for the Monday exam,” he stated.

Main Cup Quarters

With the win, Leos topped their pool ahead of their clash in the main Cup quarters, where they will be playing against Nondescript.

Ayimba also opened up about juggling books and the game.

“Life is about balance. At the moment, I have to balance between the two; it is what I am trying to achieve,” he added.

According to the quarterfinal pairing, Leos will be up against Nondescripts in the race for sealing passage to the next rounds.

In another clash, Kenya Harlequins battle it out against Nakuru Rugby Football Club as Kabras Sugar lock horns against Masinde Muliro University in a western derby tie.

The KCB Lions will complete the quarter pairing with a clash against Oilers.

Kenya Harlequins vs Nakuru RFC

Strathmore Leos vs Nondescript

Kabras Sugar vs MMUST RFC

KCB Lions vs Menengai Oilers

The clash promises to be a tough test for Leos as they angle for life without influential player and Kenya Sevens captain George ‘Japolo’ Ooro.

Ooro recently announced his departure from the university club, switching instead to KCB, where he made his debut for KCB Rugby Club at the Driftwood 7s.

Ooro exits Leos

Speaking after his move, Ooro said he is looking forward to the new chapter in his rugby journey.

“It’s a good move for me. I’m excited and eager to prove myself. KCB is a big side, and I believe my game will take the next step,” he said.

Ooro praised KCB’s professional setup and high level of competition as key reasons behind his decision to switch clubs.

“As much as Strathmore is a rugby powerhouse, KCB is a step higher. The training and competition are more intense. I am up to the challenge,” he added.

He also admitted that playing against Strathmore, if the teams meet, will be emotional.

“It will be strange to face my brothers. I left without achieving all our goals, but at the end of the day, it’s a win for rugby.”