Even before the referee blows his whistle for the game to start, Nakuru, more often than not, has already chosen sides.

On any other day, Nakuru people often support their own, but on this specific day battle lines are usually drawn. I am talking about the famous Nakuru Derby, between Nakuru RFC, commonly referred to as Wanyore, and Menengai Oilers.

Fans at the ASK showground during the Nakuru Derby on January 17.

Photo credit: BRET SANYA/ MTAA WANGU

For the better part of this week, the conversation on most social media platforms, offices, and bars has been about who will carry the day in this very important game.

This further validates the fact that this is an emotional referendum on identity in a town that has learned to express itself loudly through sport.

Fans enjoying the game between Nakuru RFC and Menengai Oilers at the ASK showground ON January 17

Photo credit: BRET SANYA /MTAA WANGU

This rivalry usually goes beyond sports, and it mirrors the identity of Nakuru and the city’s evolution. Nakuru RFC, steeped in history, represents continuity and tradition. Menengai Oilers, with their meteoric rise, embody ambition and modernity.

This is something that Erick Nganga, a Wanyore fan, explains.
“I am 34 years old now. Growing up in Nakuru, Wanyore has always been our home team. It was not until recently that Menengai came along. I feel like I am a part of Wanyore, and Wanyore is part of me. I went to Menengai High School, and for most of those in our school to play for Wanyore, therefore the core values and culture of the team were ingrained in us at an early age,” he says.

Nakuru RFC and Menengai Oilers in a scrum during their game at the ASK Showground on January 17

Photo credit: BRET SANYA / MTAA WANGU

Michael Otieno says that he came into the fold when the Menengai Oilers were just coming into the fold, and he fell in love with it instantly.
“Menengai Oilers represents a new dynamic in the Nakuru rugby space, and I acknowledge that Wanyore have been here, but Menengai Oilers represents the new kid on the block that is determined to take over, and that is what excites me about this team,” he says.

Nakuru RFC fans at the ASK showground to support their team on January 17

Photo credit: BRET SANYA/MTAA WANGU

As the game began, you could feel the tension in the air. “Let’s go, Oilers! Let’s go!” could be heard from one side of the ASK showground, famously known as “The Refinery”. “Wanyore eehh!! Wanyore aahh!” on the other.
As the game continues, banter starts being exchanged. One fan says,
“Oilers kazi yenu ni kuiba wachezaji wetu,” referencing the players that Oilers had signed from their team during the pre-season.

Alvin Khavoli a winger for the Menengai Oilers making a try during their game against Nakuru RFC on January 17.

Photo credit: BRET SANYA / MTAA WANGU

“Sasa hamperform mnadhani watabaki, nyinyi labda mshinde poa,” he replies.
Another wild Oilers fan shouts, “Kila weekend lazima vitu mbili zipigwe, sherehe na Wanyore.”
And for this, the Wanyore fans did not have a comeback.

Celestine Mboi throwing the ball in a line out during their game against Nakuru RFC on January 17

Photo credit: BRET SANYA / MTAA WANGU

Meanwhile on the pitch, Wanyore were seeing bad things, to say the least—try after try—and at the end of it all, the Oilers beat Wanyore 48–10.

The final score between Nakuru RFC and Menengai Oilers atb ASK Showground on January 1

Photo credit: BRET SANYA / MTAA WANGU

After the final whistle, you could not tell that for the past 80 minutes these two fan bases were exchanging jab for jab; they were all smiles and friends with each other.

All eyes on the pitch as rugby showdown dominates Nakuru's quiet weekend

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Purity Kinuthia