Kabras' Unbeaten Streak vs. KCB's Perfect Season: Kenya Cup Showdown in Kakamega

The regular Kenya Cup season culminates in a highly anticipated showdown between KCB Rugby and Kabras Sugar this Saturday in Kakamega. With KCB leading the table after an undefeated season and Kabras trailing by just two points, the match will determine the top seed for the playoffs. With home semifinals already secured for both teams, if victorious in the semis, the winner of this encounter gets to host the grand final.

For 38 consecutive matches, Kabras has remained undefeated, showcasing their sustained dominance. Their most recent defeat occurred in February 2022, when KCB triumphed in Nairobi.

Recent Meetings

Kabras will be looking to extend their dominance, having defeated KCB in all 3 encounters last season. Kabras were 14-10 winners in the first encounter in the Kenya Cup regular season in March. The teams met at the Kenya Cup final in April, where Kabras dominated for a 29-9 win. Kabras completed the treble on KCB in the Enterprise Cup final in June, winning 32-20 in Nairobi.

Stats and Insights from Tisini

The 32-20 win in the Enterprise Cup final highlighted Kabras’ clinical attack. They managed four tries with 42% of possession. Their ability to break through KCB's defense proved decisive, registering 11 line breaks to KCB’s none. KCB controlled 58% of the possession and dominated the set-piece battle but struggled to translate the possession to points.

On defence, Kabras made more tackles, 80, at a success rate of 73%, while KCB managed 40 tackles with a higher success rate of 82%. KCB’s discipline was a major concern as they conceded 16 penalties and received both a yellow and a red card. 

Kenya 7s Stars Return

Both teams have key players returning from Kenya 7s international duty, adding more thrill to the encounter. KCB has the services of three key backs available. Vincent Onyala’s experience in the midfield will be crucial to breaking Kabras’ defense. Floyd Wabwire's agility on the wings could be a game changer. Samuel Asati’s quick play will be an asset to KCB’s attack.

For Kabras, the halfback pairing of Brian Tanga and Jone Kubu has been instrumental in their attack. The quick thinking of Tanga and Kubu's game awareness has troubled many defenders. Jackson Siketi’s sharp attacking instincts have enabled him to create scoring opportunities, adding an extra dimension to Kabras attack. In the forwards, Kevin Wekesa and William Mwanji have been key contributors with their agility and versatility in both attack and defense.

Based on the last time these two sides met, KCB has a better chance of competing if they can capitalise on their territorial play and avoid costly penalties. However, if Kabras sustains its efficiency in attack and defence, they remain the favourites to win again.