South Coast Pirates, Impala promoted to Kenya Cup

South Coast Pirates and Impala RFC emerged as the triumphant teams in the KRU Championship semis, securing their promotion to the prestigious Kenya Cup.

For South Coast Pirates, their journey to Kenya Cup promotion began with a formidable performance against the Daystar Falcons at the Seacrest grounds in Diani where they won 30-15.

South Coast Pirates lead

The Pirates showed dominance early on, with Kelly Akengo’s precise penalty kick putting them ahead 3-0. Despite an initial response from the Falcons, who leveled the scores at 3-3 with a penalty of their own, the Pirates maintained their composure and continued to assert their authority on the game.

Led by captain Charles Tendwa, the Pirates capitalized on their opportunities, converting penalties and orchestrating tries to extend their lead. Akengo’s accurate kicking and Tendwa’s strategic leadership propelled the Pirates to a commanding 16-3 lead at halftime.

The second half saw the Pirates maintain their momentum, with Ali Rashid’s try under the posts further solidifying their dominance.

Although the Falcons managed to score, closing the gap to 23-15, the Pirates remained resolute, securing another try to seal their victory with a final score of 30-15.

Meanwhile, Impala RFC faced a tough challenge against MMUST at Kakamega Showground in their bid for Kenya Cup promotion.

The match was fiercely contested from the outset, with Quinto Ongo’s early penalty kick giving Impala an initial lead, but MMUST quickly responded, levelling the scores at 3-3.

As the game progressed, Impala and MMUST traded penalties, with Washington Ombima and Quinto Ongo showcasing their kicking prowess for their respective teams.

However, it was MMUST’s Kelvin Bukhala who made a breakthrough, crossing the try line to give his team an 11-9 lead.

Impala joined by South Coast Pirates

With tensions rising and the outcome hanging in the balance, Impala dug deep and capitalized on a penalty opportunity, with Ongo’s successful kick reclaiming the lead for Impala at 12-11.

Despite a late surge from MMUST and some tense moments in the closing minutes of the game, Impala held on for a hard-fought victory, securing their promotion to the Kenya Cup after a two-season hiatus.

It was a moment of triumph for the players, coaches, and supporters of Impala RFC, marking their return to the top tier of Kenyan rugby with pride and determination.