Tough KCB subdue Kabras Sugar lads to keep Enterprise Cup

Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) dominated set-pieces to beat Kenya Cup champions Kabras Sugar 24-12 to retain the Enterprise Cup in a thrilling final at the RFUEA grounds on Saturday.

KCB settled the affair in the first half, touching down four tries and two conversions against Kabras Sugar’s two tries and a conversion. Both sides failing to score in the second half.

Prop Oscar Simiyu touched down a brace of tries, while skipper George Asin and Kenya Sevens skipper Andrew Amonde scored a try each to hand KCB their fifth Enterprise Cup diadem.

The match saw fly-half Billy Isabwa convert tries two tries before being stretched off for treatment after a nasty concussion just before the first session ended.

Centre Fabian Olando converted flanker Levi Ochieng’s try but failed to convert eighthman Apenisa Natabua’s try as Kabras struggled to catch up with KCB.

“We knew if we matched them in the set-pieces which is their strength, then victory would be ours especially after dominating open play,” said a jubilant KCB coach Curtis Olago.

Olago praised his team, which relinquished the Kenya Cup title to Kabras Sugar in May, for being disciplined. He singled out Kilonzo brothers Peter (winger) and James (centre) for their astute play that immensely contributed to their success. “They were really a good engine at the backline play,” said Olago.

Amonde said they had to move around Kabras Sugar’s pack to tame them. “We are lucky to have settled the match in the first half after silencing their heavy pack,” said Amonde.

Kabras Sugar coach Mike Bishop rued his team’s missed opportunity for a double.

“We prepared well in the week but the boys were just flat today. There are things you just can’t explain,” said Bishop.

“We missed several crucial tackles and we should have taken our opportunities in the second half.”

Kabras Sugar deputy coach-cum-player Anthony Ogot said the long journey to Nairobi also took tall on his team. “We were lethargic in our approach especially in the first half. We have been traveling after every two weeks and that should affect our rhythm," said Ogot.

Kabras Sugar got off to a good start when Ochieng crossed the line before Olando converted. Then Asin would strike for KCB only for the Fijian import Natabua to show his power to go over the line and give Kabras a 12-5 lead.

The prodding bankers finally got another breakthrough when Simiyu landed a quick brace before Isabwa converted to take the lead 24-12 at the break.

The second half proved explosive with both teams coming to within 5m but all exhibited good defensive skills.

The teams will again meet in the Supremacy Cup that pits Kenya Cup and Enterprise Cup champions.