Hosts Eldoret RFC will be taking on Sigalagala, Mount Kenya University Nairobi and Kisii Kirafu at this weekend’s Tisap 7s the penultimate stage of National rugby 7s series in Eldoret.
The two day champions that kicks off on Saturday to Sunday has attracted 24 team in Division 2 where the Yuvilalis Makori Arusa coached side has promised shine at home at the Eldoret Sports Club.
The former Kenya cup which is a community club is equal to the task and the mantle to play in the big league and entertain their home fans as 7s returns in Eldoret since 2018, for the Sepetuka 7s.
“We want to capitalize on home ground and fans to shine where three teams, Eldoret rfc, The University of Eldoret’s Trojans and Moi University’s Arsonists will be watched keenly by home fans,” Makori.
He added that playing in Division 2 they will showcase unique rugby that has been silent for the last five years where he is optimistic that due to their level of preparedness, for the last two weeks after playing at Christies they have what it takes to win the title and take on the big boys at Kabeberi7s, the last leg of the circuit, the Kabeberi 7s.
He said that the unique thing about the team playing at home, there is little expenditure like accommodation and travelling yet they are struggling financially.
“We are a tricky pool especially Sigalagala who may give us a challenge but we would like to be in quarters then semis and finals, that is our biggest target,” he added.
Captain Eldon Keya, who will be playing in his 7s tournament at home said is optimistic that they have no reason not to shine at home.
“This is a big opportunity to host this tournament and if we come out well, first as the captain I will be grateful and a good challenge for my team that whatever we have been pushing in training has come out well in the game,” said Keya.
In 2018, Keya was still in high school and could not play in the tournament but promised a hard tackle to ensure that the team performs well.
“This will be my first time playing at home since I was young to play in Sepetuka but now, we have no reason not to perform and showcase our talent back home,” he said.
Division one pools
Pool A: Sigalagala, Eldoret, MKU nairobi and Kisii Kifaru
Pool B: Stallions, MKU Thika, Kabarak University and USIU Martial
Pool C: Makueni, Meru, KCA Spartans and Nandi
Pool D: AP Warriors, Molo, Moi University and Mbale
Pool E: NYS Spades, Northern Suburbs, Siaya and Homa Bay