Oilers are the new champions of Nakuru derby after thrashing Nakuru RFC at their home grounds 19-8.

The derby which doubled up as Kenya cup match day 4 and the seventh Kenya cup Nakuru derby was characterized by good play matched by energetic fans.

The match was coloured by fans who turned out in large numbers to cheer for each team respectively.

Hosts from Space Next door Club showcase trophies at Nakuru Athletics Club during a rugby match on January 13, 2024.

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA/MTAA WANGU

As expected, the two home teams executed a spectacle of great rugby. At one moment during the match, players nearly exchanged blows after a disagreement in the field.

Two players Christant Ojwang’ and Jonstone Mung'au got cards from the referee.

This match was exceptional as it was the first time Oilers managed to beat Nakuru RFC at home.

Nakuru RFC and Mennegai Oilers players get into a scuffle during the Nakuru derby match at NAC on January 13, 2024.

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA/MTAA WANGU

Before their win, the two teams stood at a draw (3-3) at the Nakuru Derby log, with Nakuru recording wins against Oilers in 2019,2020 and 2022 whereas Oilers registered wins in 2018,2021 and 2023.

This weekend's win is historical for the Oilers.

The match started with Wanyore having the lead through a penalty kick by Philip Okeo, setting the scores at 3-0 lead ahead of Oilers.

Christant Ojwang’ made the only try for Nakuru when the conversion went wide, settling Wanyore’s points to eight.

However, their rival side Oilers braced three tries through the boots of Jadah Aldon, Beldad Ogeta and Emannuel Muller to secure their win.

A Nakuru RFC fan watches the game at Nakuru Athletics Club on January 13, 2024.

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA/MTAA WANGU

On the other hand Denis Abukuse made two conversions for his team drawing the game at an end with a 19 point win.

Speaking to Mtaa Wangu after the match, Oilers head coach, Gibson Weru, says he is happy with the boys' performance and for their day’s win.

Menengai Oilers coach Gibson Weru during an interview on January 13, 2024.

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA/MTAA WANGU

“I am excited that we got to win for the first time at the NAC grounds. It is something we have tried several attempts without results. But as we got into the match, we spoke of being pragmatic and we harnessed our desired results,” he says

He noted that Nakuru RFC was a great team to play against. However it was unfortunate that they did not meet the results they expected.

He says, “At the end of the day, rugby wins.”

On the other hand, Nakuru RFC head coach, Simon Wariuki, says that although they did not win the game, there was a great play execution from the young boys.

Nakuru RFC head coach Simon Wariuki during an interview on January 13, 2024.

Photo credit: PURITY KINUTHIA/MTAA WANGU

“We started off well and along the way, our set pieces were not executed well at crucial zones of the game. Even at that, the young boys played really well, considering our opponents had more experienced players, they gave a nice showdown. This however calls for us to go back to the drawing board and work on our set pieces ahead of our match day 5 next weekend against Harlequins,” he said.

Wariuki however apologized to their fans on the home loss noting that they were denied the bragging rights as they have never lost at home.

He promised to perform better in their consecutive matches, especially those played at home.

wanjirukinuthia@gmail.com

Oilers, Wanyore match nearly escalates to a fight during heated Nakuru derby

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