Kenya Harlequin aim to end the year in style
Rugby
By
Washington Onyango
| Dec 16, 2023
Eight-time champions Kenya Harlequin are showcasing their formidable prowess once again in what looks to be another pulsating Kenya Cup league season.
Riding on the crest of back-to-back victories, Quins are determined to close the year unbeaten as they face off beleaguered Mwamba RFC on Saturday (4pm) at RFUEA Ground.
The stakes are high as they strive to consolidate their position at the top of the standings, just behind the defending champions Kabras Sugar.
Kenya Harlequin's season began with a bang, as they dominated Catholic Monks in a resounding 48-8 victory, followed by an even more impressive 52-0 thrashing of Homeboyz last weekend.
These commanding performances have catapulted Quins into a promising position, with a point difference of 89, mirroring the points of the leaders Kabras, second-placed KCB, and third-place Menengai Oilers all who have 10 points.
READ MORE
Blow to DPP after court reinstates Sh300m fraud case against businessman
Addis declaration: Africa sharpens its demands on global climate stage
'Sleep under the stars': Hotel mess in Brazil ahead of COP30
Africa climate change: From Nairobi to Addis can climate ambition survive debt
Why Gen Z must demand a reset from sloganeering to Vision 2050
Kenyan joins PMI Global Summit speaker line-up
Judiciary calls for more engagement on climate change
ICJ's opinion on climate responsibility is spot on
MPs to grill Energy, Treasury CSs over Sh30b debt and power deals
However, Quins can't rest on their laurels as they prepare to clash with Mwamba, a team reeling from a humiliating 67-0 defeat to Oilers.
Mwamba's struggles this season paint a stark contrast to Quins' success, and today's match is seen as a golden opportunity for Quins to maintain their winning streak and assert their dominance in the league.
Adding a twist to their campaign, Kenya Harlequin's head coach Paul Murunga has implemented strategic changes to the squad ahead of today's encounter.
Murunga's decision to make nine changes in the lineup is both a testament to the team's depth and a tactical move to keep the squad fresh and unpredictable.
Notable changes include the introduction of Mike Mugo, Adam Mugo, and Kenyan International Ian Njenga, who will replace Mohammed Khaider, George Otieno, and Meshack Tunnech in the front row.
Quins' strategy seems clear; maintain the momentum while strategically rotating their squad to keep their key players in optimal condition.
This approach not only demonstrates the depth and versatility of the team but also keeps their opponents guessing, a crucial advantage in a league as competitive as the Kenya Cup.
Will Quins continue their imperious march towards the top of the standings, or will Mwamba pull off an upset?
In other matches, Nondescripts take on Kisumu in what promises to be an engaging battle while KCB tackle Homeboyz.
Defending champions Kabras Sugar will face Catholic Monks, aiming to fortify their position at the top. Menengai Oilers' encounter with Strathmore Leos is another key match, with both teams eager to assert their presence in the league. Lastly, Blak Blad versus Nakuru is set to be a showdown worth watching.