Nakuru based Menengai Oilers delivered a dominant performance in their opening match of the 2025–26 Kenya Cup campaign after thrashing the newcomers Daystar Falcons 76-16 to set an early marker for the season.

In the match that was played at the Refinery grounds over the weekend, the Oilers were in control from kickoff, carving through the Falcons’ defense and racing to a commanding 37–3 halftime lead, a cushion that allowed them to play with both confidence and creativity throughout the second half.

Despite the score line, head coach Gibson Weru insisted his side still has significant room for improvement. He praised the result but noted that the scoreboard did not tell the full story of the team’s performance.

Weru highlighted that while Oilers executed their game plan effectively, they also left several scoring chances unconverted, adding that his primary focus, however, is to tighten their defensive structure, where he says he only saw glimpses of the viciousness and discipline he demands.

“Being on their feet quickly, resetting, and outworking opponents are non-negotiable elements we must sharpen as the season progresses, especially with tougher fixtures ahead,” Weru says.

Menengai oilers and Daystar on a scrum on their Kenya Cup match day 1 held at the Refinery on November 22 ,2025

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA/ MTAA WANGU

He notes that the match offered opportunities for several players to step up, and many did so impressively, mentioning Philip Okeyo, who made his Kenya Cup debut with Oilers to stand out as one of the best backs on the pitch after forming a dynamic combination with Samuel Mwaura and Abutwalib Wesonga that kept the Oilers moving forward with pace.

“Clarkson Keegan, starting at scrumhalf, provided the quick ball the team thrives on, enabling their high-tempo approach, while Jada Abdon’s return from a year-long injury was marked by a polished and composed display that drew praise from the technical bench,” Weru says. Weru described the overall performance as fantastic but stressed that efficiency, discipline, and work rate must improve if they are to overcome top-tier opponents like Kabras later in the season. He says Oilers now shift focus to their next assignment, a trip to Nairobi to face Impala.

Menengai Oilers player Amos Obae makes a ball carry in their Kenya Cup match day 1 against Daystar Falcons held Refinery grounds in Nakuru on November 22,2025.

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA

For the Daystar Falcons, the heavy defeat was a tough initiation into top-flight rugby, yet assistant coach Agustin Owino found positives to build on. He commended his forwards, especially the two new front-row players, for exceeding expectations in a challenging matchup. For the backline, he acknowledged the struggles to match Oilers’ cohesion, but he remains confident the issues are fixable.

“I rate our game with Oilers at 50 percent. Given that we have met them before, I felt like this was a step down for us, but one understandable given the quality of my squad. In general, the team played well,” Owino notes.

Looking ahead to their home clash against Kabras in Athi River, Owino believes the Falcons have what it takes to secure a point from that match. He concludes by naming Steven Muhoto as his man of the match for his powerful carries and consistent impact.

wanjirukinuthia20@gmail.com

Menengai Oilers give Daystar Falcons brutal introduction to top flight rugby

Author Spotlight

Purity Kinuthia