Items by DataMiner

Rugby in Kenya

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: August 12, 2010, 5:32 pm by DataMiner

  Not very inspired today, but events happening across the border have got me thinking. Regarding the outstanding performances by our fifteens team this season, I have rambled about this before. Ever the patriot I am as pleased as everyone about our performances. I was even more pleased by the approach taken by the technical team, throwing all caution to the wind and going for youth and coaching

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: August 12, 2010, 5:32 pm by DataMiner

  Not very inspired today, but events happening across the border have got me thinking. Regarding the outstanding performances by our fifteens team this season, I have rambled about this before. Ever the patriot I am as pleased as everyone about our performances. I was even more pleased by the approach taken by the technical team, throwing all caution to the wind and going for youth and coaching

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: August 4, 2010, 2:52 pm by DataMiner

  Today heralds the dawn of a new way in which things are done in Kenya. As you and I, the normal mwananchi with no reason or hope of being a politician and wielding the power that we periodically kill each other for, what hope does it then hold for us? Is it possible that the new constitution will affect each and every one of our lives? And if so in what way? Will we get improved democratic

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: July 21, 2010, 2:38 pm by DataMiner

  Finally, out of the shadows and the doldrums. I can stop whinging and whining for now. What we have said on this blog for years is finally bearing fruit. Beginning with the righting of the season, to the emerging bravery of the technical team. I don't know if they read us, but it is heartening to know that we are on the same page, even if of someone else's book. That the powers that be also

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: July 14, 2010, 3:49 pm by DataMiner

  Quite a bit has happened in the past two weeks. My highlight was the fifteens team retaining the Elgon Cup and capturing the Victoria Cup with a game to spare - despite hardships and other problems that came their way. They should be an example to the sevens team that the team has no owners. Certain players who have been sure starts in the team for the last 6 years or so were shown the door

• Kenya Climb Up IRB Rankings

  Posted: July 6, 2010, 1:29 pm by DataMiner

  The hard fought 33-25 victory against Uganda over the weekend saw Kenya climb to its highest ranking of 38 since July 2006 when they were ranked 37. That is a major feat considering all the team has undergone in the last couple of weeks. A win by 15 points or more would have seen them climb even higher.Hope this weekend is another win will see them climb to their highest ever IRB Rankings. Let

• Kenya Team to Play Uganda

  Posted: July 2, 2010, 9:30 pm by DataMiner

  The team below will face Uganda tomorrow in an Elgon Cup/Victoria Cup match at Kyadondo Rugby Grounds in Kampala.Daniel Kiptoo - Rhinos / Kenya Harlequin FC Edwin Alubaka - Lions / KCB RFC Nzioka Muema - Cheetahs / Impala RFC Anthony Mutai - Rhinos / Kenya Harlequin

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: June 23, 2010, 6:39 pm by DataMiner

  I almost did not do one this week as my colleagues have aptly vented on my behalf. So I'll be brief.. he he.What do we really want as a rugby playing nation? Are we a World Power in the sport? Are we even an African Power in the sport? The best we have come is third in a CAR competition that had weird qualification process that UGANDA won! What then is our rush to prove we are a force to

• Weekend Games

  Posted: June 18, 2010, 6:41 pm by DataMiner

  Weekend action sees two Kenyan fifteen a side teams in action, I think the first time in a very long time. Kenya proper plays the curtain raiser for the Springboks vs. Italy game tomorrow in Mpumalanga province South Africa and coach Michael "Tank" Otieno put in a cameo appearance on top rugby programme "Boots and All" on Supersport last night. He was cut short in his brief speech but it is a

• Weekend Games

  Posted: June 18, 2010, 6:41 pm by DataMiner

  Weekend action sees two Kenyan fifteen a side teams in action, I think the first time in a very long time. Kenya proper plays the curtain raiser for the Springboks vs. Italy game tomorrow in Mpumalanga province South Africa and coach Michael "Tank" Otieno put in a cameo appearance on top rugby programme "Boots and All" on Supersport last night. He was cut short in his brief speech but it is a

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: June 16, 2010, 2:05 pm by DataMiner

  I've been saying it for the last 3 years and people come out with guns blazing. Suddenly, it is plain to see. The KRFU has no vision for Rugby in Kenya! If last weekend was anything to go by, then we now know what their interests are. For the annual accounts to have a qualifying remark that the Directors of the Union get no financial consideration for their responsibilities, it leaves more

• Update: Kenya vs. Zimbabwe 12-06-2010 Kenya 11 Zimbabwe 10

  Posted: June 12, 2010, 8:39 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya overcame a furious onslaught from Zimbabwe to win the opening encounter of the Victoria Cup by a solitary point. Kenya trailed all the way to the last fifteen minutes when replacement Moses Kola converted the all important penalty to take the lead. They then absorbed and applied their own pressure to hang on for the all important victory.Do have a good weekend. Soccer mode now!

• Kenya vs. Zimbabwe 12-06-2010

  Posted: June 12, 2010, 2:46 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya takes on Zimbabwe today in the opening match of the Victoria Cup. The Victoria Cup is a three nation affair with Uganda being the third team. The teams will play each other on a home and away basis with the winner of the series being the team with the most points. The matches pitting perennial rivals Kenya and Uganda will also double up as Elgon Cup matches, with the winner on points

• Teams for Safaricom Sevens Named

  Posted: June 3, 2010, 5:38 pm by DataMiner

  There are no major changes in the team to play as Kenya in the Safaricom Sevens this weekend. Sidney Ahioya and Benedict Nyambu step back into the side. Innocent Simiyu is carrying an injury obtained in London and will not take part in this edition of the Safari Sevens. Dennis Muhanji moves to the Shujaa side where he is sure to get more game time. Interesting to note is that some "academy"

• Safaricom Sevens Final Draw

  Posted: June 2, 2010, 1:57 pm by DataMiner

  The final draw for this year's edition of the Safaricom Sevens has been released. The late withdrawals by some sides have caused the draw to change slightly. International invitational side Samurai joins Kenya in Pool A and will be another team to watch. POOL A POOL B POOL C POOL D Kenya Emerging Boks Argentina Hamilton Raiders Les Bleu Bristol Zimbabwe

• Weekend Games

  Posted: May 28, 2010, 7:53 pm by DataMiner

  No matches so to speak this weekend. However, the National Fifteens team will be holding trials from 2.00 p.m. at Impala Club. The more the merrier and I believe the bar will be open so we can get into the Safaricom Sevens mode.The squad is divided into Probables and Possibles with the same pool of substitutes. Of note is the absence of Sevens players in the squad. I wonder if some peoples

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: May 26, 2010, 3:14 pm by DataMiner

  Sorry guys, been away traveling for some time. It is hard to imagine places in this world with scarce internet availability.Anyway, in my absence, I don't think too much has changed. I sounded the warning bells before the IRB Circuit started but as usual people just thought I was being negative. This post summed up my thoughts and nothing has changed. That we have the most experienced squad

• [nt]

  Posted: May 15, 2010, 11:49 pm by DataMiner

• Weekend Games

  Posted: May 14, 2010, 1:25 pm by DataMiner

  The Bamburi Rugby Super Series enters the penultimate weekend with half the teams out of the running. What remains now is the run to the trophy and the prize money. In the first match at 2.00 p.m. SDV Transami Cheetahs will take on Kampala Coach Victoria and in the second match at 4.00 p.m. UAP Rhinos take on the Lions. I see Cheetahs winning over Victoria by 10 points and the second game will

• Bamburi Rugby Series - Match Day 3 Results

  Posted: May 11, 2010, 3:02 pm by DataMiner

  Not much went against the script. The Sharks got shell shocked and gave the Cheetahs too much respect. By the time they realised they could do it it was too late and the Cheetahs held on. The Lions did what they needed to do and so too the Rhinos. The Buffaloes failed to break their duck in Kampala and also left the tournament in the dead rubber match of the day.This weekend will now be the

• Weekend Games

  Posted: May 7, 2010, 2:15 pm by DataMiner

  Match Day 3 of the Bamburi Rugby Super Series and barring any hiccups, all should go well. Two teams in Pool B have already secured their semi finals spot and will only be fighting it out to see who tops the pool UAP Rhinos host Kampala Coach Victoria in Nakuru and Rwenzori will host Mumias Sugar Buffaloes in Kampala for the wooden spoon of the pool.And as much as SDV Transami Cheetahs seem to

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: May 6, 2010, 9:19 pm by DataMiner

  Not much on my mind, just the usual. Wondering when the mismanagement will stop. I won't say much on the treatment of the traveling teams during the Bamburi Rugby Super Series. Just that more due diligence should be done and there should be ways to make sponsors accountable for their promises or actions, say in the way of a performance bond, held with a bank and encashed only when breach is

• Bamburi Rugby Series - Match Day 2 Results

  Posted: May 2, 2010, 2:35 pm by DataMiner

  I believe much better in terms of entertainment value. The Lions woke up and defeated the Nguvu Sharks 20-12. SDV Transami Cheetahs steamrolled over M Bank Twigas 57-0. Victoria overcame Mumias Sugar Buffales 26-3 and UAP Rhinos edged Rwenzori 23-22.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: May 1, 2010, 12:56 pm by DataMiner

  Saturday sees Round 2 of the Bamburi Rugby Super Series. This weekend we hope no one way games. Mumias Sugar Buffaloes host Victoria in Mumias, Rwenzori host UAP Rhinos in Kampala, Nguvu Sharks play Lions in Nairobi and M Bank Twigas play Cheetahs in Arusha.Result here after the games. Please take time to vote on our poll on the left. Have a good weekend.

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: April 28, 2010, 8:28 pm by DataMiner

  I have always suspected but now I think it is confirmed. The KRFU has no vision for 15-a-side rugby and by extension Rugby in Kenya!I have been poring over things in my head and bits and pieces of information that keep coming my way and it is astounding to say the least. The KRFU lives for two things! The IRB Sevens Circuit and the annual Safaricom Sevens! That I have no doubt in my mind.

• Bamburi Super Series Update

  Posted: April 28, 2010, 2:25 am by DataMiner

  Victoria 16 Rwenzori 13. Looks like the injury toll was too great.

• Bamburi Rugby Series Kicks Off in Uganda

  Posted: April 27, 2010, 4:40 pm by DataMiner

  Match 4 of this years Bamburi Super Series kicks off this afternoon in Kampala with 2nd runners' up in last years event Rwenzori facing Victoria. For more details, please visit the official Bamburi Super Series Website. We hope to post the results as soon as they are available.

• Ugandan Sides Suffer Injury Losses Ahead of BRSS Kick Off

  Posted: April 26, 2010, 9:25 pm by DataMiner

  Following a hard fought league campaign, the Ugandan teams Rwenzori and Victoria have suffered serious losses just before they kick of their matches for the Bamburi Rugby Super Series. First given to us on this blog by a commentator, we have independently confirmed the story and a third source corroborates the information. The Rwenzori side seems more affected and it will be interesting to see

• Bamburi Rugby Series - Match Day 1 Results

  Posted: April 25, 2010, 2:23 pm by DataMiner

  SDV Transami Cheetahs 52 Lions 17 UAP Rhinos 61 Mumias Sugar Buffaloes 0 Nguvu Sharks 79 M Bank Twigas 0. Lopsided Day 1. Is the Super Series losing its competitiveness? Do we really have the top 240 players in East Africa? Do we have 240 players in East Africa capable of playing at this level? Is the tournament structure skewed?

• Weekend Games

  Posted: April 23, 2010, 2:22 pm by DataMiner

  The Bamburi Rugby Super Series kicks off this weekend with four matches on the cards. The Cheetahs comprising mainly Nondies and Impala will kick off the event against the Lions, comprising mainly KCB and Mwamba. Defending champions Rhinos comprising Quins and Nakuru will then face Buffaloes from Western Kenya. University franchise Sharks will travel to Arusha to face the Twigas whilst the

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: April 21, 2010, 9:12 pm by DataMiner

  The Kenya Cup has come to an end and what a dramatic end it was. Even I could not have written such a script but it was well worth the money. And with the end of the Kenya Cup has come the usual debate. Who is the right person to coach the Kenya National Team? To me I do not think it matters who coaches the team. As we are just so basic in our game. We tend to think that the team that won

• Quins Claim Kenya Cup

  Posted: April 19, 2010, 7:12 pm by DataMiner

  Nivea Harlequins put up a solid display of focus and discipline in the second half to recover from an eighteen point deficit at half time to convincingly defeat Kenya Commercial Bank 26-21 in a thrilling encounter played at the KRFU grounds on Saturday. KCB got off the blocks first and raced to a 16-0 lead in under 15 minutes. Quins attempts to come back quickly into the game failed and their

• Quins Win Kenya Cup

  Posted: April 17, 2010, 12:08 am by DataMiner

  In a classic tale of two halves, Quins came from 3 21 down at the turn around to reclaim the trophy they last held in 2008 with a 21 26 victory over KCB. More to come.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: April 17, 2010, 11:58 am by DataMiner

  Finals weekend and it's Kenya Commercial Bank vs. Nivea Harlequins. Match kicks off at 4.00 p.m. sharp. It will be preceded by the 3rd/4th playoff between Nakuru and Resolution Impala. Both matches will be live on Supersport.In the main match, it is the battle of the forwards that will be the key focus of attention. Both sets trying to outdo each other and set up the platforms. However, I

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: April 14, 2010, 6:19 pm by DataMiner

  Been avoiding this for a long time, but everyone else has had it, so why not them? My ramble today, what direction are our officiating standards heading to? When I used to play rugby, we were not sure whether a referee would turn up or not. Since not many clubs were playing rugby then, the matches were quite few and so once the referee turned up, our thoughts were as to whether he would be

• Quins Complete Finals Pairing

  Posted: April 10, 2010, 9:51 pm by DataMiner

  Quins beat Impala 25 16 to complete the pairing for the Kenya Cup Finals. KCB had earlier beaten Nakuru 20 10.

• Kenya Cup Semis Update

  Posted: April 10, 2010, 7:48 pm by DataMiner

  KCB have qualified for the finals courtesy of a 20 10 win over Nakuru. KCB had to play with 14 men on two occasions and a fight an error prone but torrid Nakuru fight back.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: April 9, 2010, 1:47 pm by DataMiner

  Semi Finals time and the last men standing will soon also change. A first is that the Kenya Cup semi finals will be broadcast live on Supersport from 2.00 p.m. Despite the short season, I'd say the leagues have been quite competitive and entertaining. In the first Semi, Kenya Commercial Bank will take on Nakuru RFC and then Nivea Harlequins take on Resolution Health Impala.During the regular

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: April 8, 2010, 3:13 pm by DataMiner

  Today I will do just that.. ramble. I was just wondering if all arms of rugby are in sync with each other. Given, I was a firm supporter that KRFU bulldoze its way and realign the season with the International season. I also supported that they should do it irrespective of the sentiments and feelings of clubs. I supported that it should be done in a structured organised way. To belatedly

• Kenya Cup - Week 7

  Posted: March 29, 2010, 4:12 pm by DataMiner

  Thought it didn't but the scores did matter. I got the main one wrong and the order at the top has been shuffled. Quins still lead the standings, followed by KCB. Impala and Nakuru now swap places meaning the semi finals in two weeks will have Quins facing Impala and KCB facing Nakuru. As I had said before what matters is the form for the last two matches and it seems everyone is peaking for

• Kenya Cup Results 270310

  Posted: March 27, 2010, 12:19 am by DataMiner

  Nakuru 15 Quins 5 Impala 6 KCB 6 Strathmore 17 Machine 14 Mwamba 17 Nondies 16.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: March 26, 2010, 6:23 pm by DataMiner

  In the midst of the fast and furious action from Hong Kong, Kenya Cup action continues this weekend. The four teams for the semi finals are already set and the placing also will not change barring some ridiculous scoring. League leaders Kenya Harlequins travel to Nakuru. Runners' up KCB cross town to Ngong Road to face Impala. Mwamba will host Nondies at Railway Club and the universities'

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: March 24, 2010, 5:50 pm by DataMiner

  Today I will avoid the obvious as I have said most of it before and I really don't feel like going there today. Instead I will keep hope alive and pray that our dreams come true.. soon. Instead I will dwell a bit on the local rugby scene. Events in the past one week have left me wondering what role the media plays in promoting sports?Specifically in rugby, I know there is a silent war between

• Kenya Cup - Week 6

  Posted: March 22, 2010, 3:39 pm by DataMiner

  Three out of four not bad, and within the predicted margins also. Only surprise is that Nakuru seem to have fallen off the pace whilst Impala failed to rise to the occasion, their game riddled with errors totally unbecoming of defending champions. The log thus remains the same with Quins still at the top, KCB second and Impala third. Nakuru completes the semi final pairing and barring any

• IRB Adelaide Sevens Wrap

  Posted: March 22, 2010, 11:49 am by DataMiner

  For the first time this season we failed to take any points in the IRB Sevens Circuit. We were a pale shadow of our feared selves, seeming to just go through the motions. Even in the Bowl Competition where we beat Niue Islands 25-7 and Scotland 36-12, we failed to even come off the starting blocks against England in the final and lost 33-12. We however remain in sixth position and are now

• Two Right A Wrong

  Posted: March 20, 2010, 3:25 pm by DataMiner

  Nothing wrong with my spell check. Just building up from my Weekly Ramble of Thursday. Not usually one to invoke the name of the Almighty, but we now have a God given opportunity to help ourselves. By falling out of the main cup competition, we now have no hope of winning the event. Personally, I don't even think we need any points from the event as we are well on the way to attaining more

• Weekend Games

  Posted: March 19, 2010, 8:49 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya Cup action continues this weekend with the top four still jostling for order. I think I have stated this before, but to me it actually does not matter as it will still boil down to two games that must be your best in order to win the trophy. Many a time it has happened that the fourth placed team win the title!Anyway, front runners and the only unbeaten side Quins will host Impala at the

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: March 18, 2010, 12:48 pm by DataMiner

  This weekend sees Shujaa attempt a repeat performance of reaching the finals of the Adelaide leg of the IRB Sevens Circuit and perhaps do one better, take the title. Historically we have fared better in three day events and so expectations are extremely high, as always. Maybe it is impatience, or eagerness to achieve, but the pressure on the players and the technical team from even just

• Kenya Cup Results 130310

  Posted: March 13, 2010, 11:24 pm by DataMiner

  B2B beat me!.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: March 12, 2010, 3:09 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya Cup rugby enters the crucial rounds with jostling for the top four positions. The top seeded teams now meet each other with on of the middle group hoping to sneak into the top four and grab a semi final position. With the league being this short and with the format of a one-off semi final and final, I do not think season form will matter much come the last two games. With that said and

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: March 11, 2010, 6:04 pm by DataMiner

  Sorry folks, not my usual one, but a ramble all the same. I'm just amazed at the shenanigans going on, the horse trading, the assertion of authority, the impunity and I won't even mention the C word here lest I'm threatened with law suits. I think Rugby in Kenya is finally with the big boys and all the above comes with the territory. I am even ashamed for myself and some of my erstwhile

• Mwanja and Sudi Return to Shujaa

  Posted: March 11, 2010, 1:58 pm by DataMiner

  The Kenya Rugby Football Union has named the squad to participate in the next two legs of the IRB Sevens Circuit. "Ironman" Dennis Mwanja and Victor Sudi return to a squad that also has a new face, Dennis Muhanji of Kenya Harlequins.The squad is as follows.Humphrey Kayange [Captain] - Mwamba RFCLavin Asego - Mwamba RFCCollins Injera -

• Kenya Cup Results - 060310

  Posted: March 6, 2010, 11:39 pm by DataMiner

  Strathmore 8 KCB 25, Mwamba 21 Impala 39, Nakuru 37 Nondies 17,Quins 46 Machine 3,

• Weekend Games

  Posted: March 5, 2010, 11:38 am by DataMiner

  Kenya Cup enters the fourth week this Saturday with the usual four matches on the cards. Mwamba will host Resolution Health Impala, Strathmore host KCB, Nondies are away at Nakuru and Machine play Nivea for Men Harlequins at the KRFUEA grounds.Impala will beat Mwamba by a score, KCB will win by over 10 points, but no bonus point. Nakuru will scrape through Nondies by a score as well and Quins

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: March 3, 2010, 5:24 pm by DataMiner

  Firstly I would like to thank all the people that visit this blog. They are the fire that keeps the blog burning and the reason for its existence. I would also like to thank all those who leave their comments here. Some harsh, some abusive, but nonetheless very informative. And one of them has given me a topic for my ramble today.Who owns Rugby? Is it a word, is it a game, is it a place?

• Kenya Cup - Week 3

  Posted: March 1, 2010, 2:22 pm by DataMiner

  I think the form book just got better. The minnows are putting up a stiff fight and will for sure play a role in the semi final pairings, as a loss to any one of them could change the rankings at the top, and it's going to happen soon! I believe KCB and Quins are now joint top, with Impala at third. Nakuru barely retain fourth spot. Mean Machine will climb to fifth spot with the tail being

• Kenya Cup Results 270210

  Posted: February 27, 2010, 10:01 pm by DataMiner

  Impala 16 Nondies 10 Machine 15 Nakuru 7 Quins 5 Strathmore 3 KCB 26 Mwamba 18.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: February 26, 2010, 12:39 pm by DataMiner

  Getting back into my stride slowly. Kenya Cup Week 3 sees Resolution Health Impala host Nondescripts, Kenya Commercial Bank host Mwamba, Strathmore Leos host Nivea for Men Harlequiuns and Mean Machine host Nakuru.Impala will overrun Nondies by 8 points, KCB will whip Mwamba by over 15 points, Strathmore will harass Quins but eventually lose by 8 points and I expect Machine to beat Nakuru by a

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: February 23, 2010, 1:00 pm by DataMiner

  For some reason, this year, the KRFU elections seem to be a low key affair. For a union that sends out at least 4 media releases a week, I am yet to see one concerning the AGM that is scheduled for tomorrow. Much as an AGM is for the union to highlight it's achievements and its agenda for the coming year, they at times turn to be our typical Kenyan political scenario. Last year's was one of

• Kenya Cup Results 130310

  Posted: February 14, 2010, 4:14 am by DataMiner

  Nakuru 32 Mwamba 3 Quins 31 Nondies 10 Impala 31 Strathmore 3 KCB 54 Machine 16

• Weekend Games

  Posted: February 12, 2010, 6:01 pm by DataMiner

  Our regular weekends are back. Kenya Cup and Eric Shirley commence and it is short and quick this time. Only one leg then semis and finals so no time for recovery.Impala host Strathmore University, KCB host Mean Machine, Quins host Nondies and Nakuru host Mwamba. My calls are Impala over Strathmore, though not by too much. KCB will pip Machine, one score the range. Quins should beat Nondies

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: February 11, 2010, 10:50 am by DataMiner

  Is the union principle of top down development working? That is a question I have asked myself many a time. I, for one, am a believer in bottom up principles as they are all inclusive and all encompassing and leaves nothing to chance if well managed. The reverse I believe is escapist and myopic and for the faint hearted. However, I may be wrong!For over a decade now, the union has

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: February 1, 2010, 7:50 pm by DataMiner

  Hello and Happy New Year to all. Sorry for my long absence but I've been doing quite a bit of traveling. For some reason also, the goings on at the union are just too juicy, some even I don't have the guts to post. And lastly, maybe someone sniffed me out and I have somehow been compromised. It has taken me a good two weeks, just going through the blog, checking my old posts, from the first

• Out and In, a New Season Beckons

  Posted: December 31, 2009, 1:57 pm by DataMiner

  2009 was a very eventful year. Several events happened that shaped the course of the year and the course of rugby in Kenya. Highlights of the year were the international events that took place here. The Junior World Rugby Trophy ranks very highly in the list of tournaments that the IRB holds and hosting it was a great honour and privilege. At that level we also hosted the Africa Under 19

• Happy Holidays

  Posted: December 18, 2009, 1:32 pm by DataMiner

  From myself and hopefully the rest of the contributors here at rugbykenya.blogspot.com, we wish you Happy Holidays. Do enjoy your Christmas and the New Year Celebrations. Let us try to practice what we preach and do everything in moderation. All the while thinking about tomorrow, because though it never comes, yesterday is also gone forever.Just to put you in the mood, some famous rugby quotes

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: December 15, 2009, 1:19 pm by DataMiner

  Good news. Kenya Rugby cleared out the ruck boards at the SOYA awards. We got three awards including the ultimate one Sportsman of the Year. My fellow blogger, Sportskenya.blogspot.com, got some right and I had been tempted to say some strong words there, but the one he thought we would win hands-down, I'm glad we did not. What has happened in the last twelve months has perhaps let people

• Kenya to Face Australia in George Rugby Quarters

  Posted: December 12, 2009, 12:30 pm by DataMiner

  After a sterling performance yesterday that ended with a 12 all draw against South Africa, Shujaa are now set to face Australia in the main cup Quarter Finals of the George Rugby Sevens after topping their pool. Outstanding performances the whole day from former captain Ian Simiyu and current captain Humphrey Kayange propelled the team to the outstanding performance.The match will be at 14:51

• Driftwood Rugby Sevens Draw

  Posted: December 10, 2009, 5:16 pm by DataMiner

  Strathmore University are once more top seeds for the event. KCB for the first time get a top three seeding at number two and joint circuit leaders Harlequins are third. Strathmore head Pool A alongside Nondies, Mwamba and newcomers Shepherds RFC. KCB's Pool B also contains Machine, Blak Blad and Kenya Poly. Pool C contains Quins, Mombasa Poly, Daystar and Homeboyz whilst Impala, Nakuru,

• Western Union National Sevens Circuit Down to the Wire

  Posted: December 9, 2009, 3:57 pm by DataMiner

  Literally balanced on a knife edge. With Strathmore and Harlequins neck to neck at 90 points, and Nakuru third at 82, it is one of these three sides who will win the title. The rest are stark outsiders considering that even for Nakuru to win, both Strathmore and Quins need to drop out before the semi final stage! And the points difference will only come to play if both Quins and Strathmore are

• Strathmore Winners At Kabeberi

  Posted: December 7, 2009, 2:01 pm by DataMiner

  Strathmore University Leos lived up to their top billing and scooped the George Mwangi Kabeberi Sevens title with a 10-5 victory over KCB in the final. The win gave the students 24 points and now lie joint first with Harlequins on 90 points as we go into the final round of matches in Mombasa next weekend. Nakuru's loss in the quarter finals has seen them slip off the pace and lie third with 82

• Kabeberi Rugby Sevens Order of Play

  Posted: December 4, 2009, 6:10 pm by DataMiner

  Top seeds Strathmore University Leos kick off proceedings against Kenyatta University Blak Blad at 10.00 a.m. Log leaders Quins start off against Mombasa Poly at 10.36 and runners' up Nakuru with Daystar at 11.48. The matches of the day will be the pool deciders from 4:18 p.m. with Strathmore against Machine, Quins against Mwamba, KCB against Masinde Muliro and Nakuru against Impala. These

• Kenya Launch Campaign Against Russia

  Posted: December 3, 2009, 6:29 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya will begin their campaign in the IRB World Seven Series against Russia tomorrow at 9.26 EAT in the Dubai leg of the circuit. They will than face up against USA at 13.02 before winding up with Pool C top seeds England at 17.52. You can get more details here, including possibly a live feed tomorrow for the matches.Expectations are high back home after the team reached the semi finals of the

• Strathmore Favorites at Kabeberi

  Posted: December 2, 2009, 2:45 pm by DataMiner

  Top seeds Strathmore University are the favorites for this weekend's Kabeberi Memorial Sevens, hosted by Mwamba, as the Western Union National Sevens Circuit enters the penultimate leg. They head Pool A alongside fellow university sides Mean Machine and Blak Blad. Completing the group will be newcomers Homeboyz. It will be interesting to see how the battle of the Universities pans out as a few

• A Time to Reflect

  Posted: December 1, 2009, 12:58 pm by DataMiner

  Today is World Aids Day. Always a time to sit back and think. How we are all either infected or affected. And why we do what we do the way we do it. By all being somehow implicated, it means we are all in it together. And due to that we must all find a way out together. Just reminiscing on last year's post on the same day, quite a bit has gone on since. That post covers it quite aptly and

• Western Union National Sevens Circuit Opens Up

  Posted: November 30, 2009, 3:35 pm by DataMiner

  The win by Strathmore University over the weekend at the Nakuru Prinsloo 7's has turned Western Union National Sevens Circuit into at three team affair. By knocking out favorites Nakuru at the semi finals stage and doing the same to now leaders Harlequins in the final, they assured themselves of a massive 30 points that puts them within range of the ultimate title. My calculations have Quins

• Nakuru Prinsloo 7's Order of Play

  Posted: November 27, 2009, 4:41 pm by DataMiner

  Top seeds Kenya Harlequin open play against newcomers Homeboyz. My sources have not been very good this time and I don't know the composition of this team, but I expect it to be an invitational team with some mercenaries! Next up will Flames against USIU. The top matches of the day will be the closing ones from about 3.15 p.m. though the Mwamba vs. Masinde Muliro match at 1.35 should be one to

• Nakuru Prinsloo Draw Released

  Posted: November 26, 2009, 3:12 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya Harlequin are the top seeds for this weekend's Prinsloo Sevens in Nakuru. Hosts and runners up last weekend Nakuru are second seeded with KCB and Strathmore third and fourth in that order. The equalising rationalisation of points for the sixteen team tournaments to come close to the twenty four team ones means there is no real advantage in winning the bigger events now. Due to the

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: November 24, 2009, 3:22 pm by DataMiner

  Looking in from Outside!Very many factors influence your vision. The presence of blinds or curtains. The tint on the windows. The angle of the sunlight. Placement of furniture in the room. And placement of the what you actually want to see in the room. So you ask, what am I trying to see?Purely as an outsider, who's only interest is in the game, the welfare of the players, the welfare of

• Christies 7's Order of Play

  Posted: November 20, 2009, 3:39 pm by DataMiner

  Day 1 Matches will be played as below. Match No Time 1 10:00 NAKURU vs MOMBASA POLY 2 10:18 KISUMU vs CATHOLIC 3 10:36 QUINS vs USIU 4 10:54 MASINDE MULIRO vs JKUAT 5 11:12 IMPALA vs MACHINE 6 11:30 NONDIES vs

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: November 18, 2009, 9:39 pm by DataMiner

  With the Sevens season now in full swing, now would be the time to recollect our thoughts, and with next season barely two months away from starting, think about where we were, where we are, and where we can be. Unfortunately it is not so. You see, we have become solely mindful of rugby sevens and leave the regular rugby as an aside. Yes, we are more visible in sevens and yes, people are ready

• Nakuru Top Seeds in Christie Sevens

  Posted: November 18, 2009, 5:15 pm by DataMiner

  After their sterling performance last week that saw them claim the Dala Sevens title, the first of the five leg National Sevens Circuit, Nakuru have been seeded top at this weekends Christie Sevens, to be hosted by Kenya Harlequins. The hosts have been seeded second with Impala and Strathmore third and fourth respectively.Nakuru are placed in Pool A alongside Kisumu, Mombasa Polytechnic and

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: November 11, 2009, 6:24 pm by DataMiner

  My favorite part of the season is over and maybe I also need to take a break. I firmly believe that the foundation of all rugby is the fifteen a side code and all else is supplementary. You can play fifteen a side rugby all year round and it is truly the game where people of all shapes and sizes can play. A key identity of the game of rugby. Come sevens and already the fields are emptying

• Supremacy Cup

  Posted: November 2, 2009, 3:43 pm by DataMiner

  It turned out not to be the battle all expected it to be. Impala made it 3 wins out of 4 over Harlequins this season and quite an emphatic win it was. The first half lived up to it's billing but Quins didn't come out for the second half. They allowed Impala to pile score after score and their desperation caused them to try running from deep in their half, that error costing them dearly.The

• Supremacy Cup Results

  Posted: October 31, 2009, 11:31 pm by DataMiner

  Impala 33 Quins 24 KCB II 10 Quins II 25

• Weekend Games

  Posted: October 30, 2009, 6:33 pm by DataMiner

  Two matches on the cards this weekend. The supremacy cup between the winners of the leagues and cups in both divisions. Kenya Harlequins are represented in both matches and were the winners of the same event last year. The second division match pits them against perennial rivals KCB whilst the highlight of the day also is against arch rivals Impala.Both matches promise to be explosive. The

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: October 28, 2009, 6:43 pm by DataMiner

  Well the fifteens season has come to a close and I must say it was quite a season. Midway through the season I started to feel that we were quickly forgetting about what fifteens rugby is about and losing patience with the whole thing. True, some teams could not be bothered, and some other teams have not played a single fifteen a side match this season, but to those that did, congratulations

• Enterprise Cup Result

  Posted: October 24, 2009, 10:10 pm by DataMiner

  Harlequins 19 Impala 6

• Weekend Games

  Posted: October 23, 2009, 2:56 pm by DataMiner

  Two matches on the cards this weekend. The undercard is what has become the perennial rivalry in Kenyan second division rugby. KCB seconds take on Quins seconds in the final of the Mwamba Cup. The same teams muscled up in last year's final with KCB getting the better of Quins. What is it to be this time?The main event sees Impala take on Kenya Harlequins. The two teams had varied yet equally

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: October 21, 2009, 5:57 pm by DataMiner

  A peek into the future, foresight, reading the tea leaves, or mole in the camp? The choice is yours. Less than a week after I spoke about it, it has come to pass. The head honcho of the 7's team has "urged" clubs to release their players for national team duty. I like the terminology used, and masking it as a request, whilst we all know what it is. It is a muted threat to the players, comply

• Enterprise Cup Result

  Posted: October 17, 2009, 10:02 pm by DataMiner

  KCB 9 Quins 16.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: October 16, 2009, 4:36 pm by DataMiner

  Only one official match on the cards this weekend. The Enterprise Cup replay between KCB and Quins at Ruaraka. The first match was hopelessly drawn and truth be told, I don't think extra time would have satisfactorily broken the deadlock.Having watched that match, I think Quins have the more patient and steady build up whilst KCB are more deadly when within striking distance. It will make for

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: October 15, 2009, 3:17 pm by DataMiner

  Don't really have much on my head today. Just to reminisce about some past posts of mine and others. Recent comments on this blog have led me to believe that yes, we have been on the right track. I have always been one to advocate for strong clubs. Everyone knows that without strong roots, you cannot have a strong tree. And the roots of all rugby is the clubs. The clubs pick up the

• Enterprise Cup - Semi Finals

  Posted: October 12, 2009, 4:41 pm by DataMiner

  The drama-filled season continued unabated. Impala came from 12-0 down to overcome Nakuru by one point. There was nothing to separate Harlequins and KCB and with rapidly fading light, a replay was decided on this coming weekend at the KCB home ground.Impala thus have a week to wait, prepare and watch their potential opponent before the final. Do have a good week.

• Enterprise Cup Results

  Posted: October 10, 2009, 11:02 pm by DataMiner

  Nakuru 12 Impala 13 Quins 8 KCB 8.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: October 9, 2009, 7:07 pm by DataMiner

  The Enterprise Cup enters the Semi-Final stages tomorrow with the same teams that topped the Kenya Cup fighting it out for honours once more. Kenya Harlequins host KCB whilst Impala travel to face defending champions Nakuru. There is no need to stress that it is winner take all, and for teams that have no silverware to show for the season, it may be their only chance. I just wonder why the

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: October 8, 2009, 2:52 pm by DataMiner

  These are coming few and far in between. Lack of something to chew on, lack of motivation, or just lack of.. So today I just ramble. Are there any similarities between the rulers of this country and the "rulers" of Kenya Rugby? Is there visionary leadership in Kenyan Rugby? Is there acceptance and tolerance by the leadership of Kenyan Rugby? Are there avenues to channel issues, suggestions

• Enterprise Cup - Quarter Finals

  Posted: October 5, 2009, 4:01 pm by DataMiner

  All fairly routine stuff actually. Nakuru fought off whatever was on their minds, while Mwamba forgot there was a game until it was well over. Impala nearly struggled but eventually overcame machine whilst KCB just had a stroll in the park, good for getting their systems working, etc.Nakuru will now face Impala in the Quarter finals this coming weekend while KCB will face Harlequins. I don't

• Enterprise Cup Results

  Posted: October 3, 2009, 11:28 pm by DataMiner

  Mwamba 13 Quins 33 Nakuru 24 Nondies 5 Machine 12 Impala 19 KCB many Strathmore few.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: October 2, 2009, 8:48 pm by DataMiner

  This weekend sees action shift to the knockout Enterprise Cup Competition. The event begins at the quarter final stage and it is explosive from the word go. Nakuru host Nondies, Mean Machine host Impala, Mwamba host Quins and Strathmore host KCB. Two games likely to go to the wire will be the Nondies/Nakuru and the Mwamba/Quins. I think Nakuru will overcome Nondies this time round by a score,

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: September 30, 2009, 2:50 pm by DataMiner

  The end of the Kenya Cup and maybe it's time for barbs and bouquets. Bouquets first. To the teams and players. Without them there would be no league and no matches. I don't know if the union recognises their efforts, but the treatment clubs get at the hands of the union is disgraceful really. That the union lords itself over the clubs and players and has no respect for what the clubs do to

• Kenya Cup - Week 14

  Posted: September 28, 2009, 7:36 pm by DataMiner

  Had the potential for plenty of action, thrills and spills, but it was not to be. The form book was maintained and there were no sudden upsets. To me, at least, the victors were well deserved. At the half way stage, and the games I'd watched, Impala were the only team that played with any form or attempt at structure, and kudos to them for the win. I think I should...Impala played with form

• Kenya Cup Result - Quins 5 Impala 13

  Posted: September 26, 2009, 11:27 pm by DataMiner

  Impala held their nerve in a dull encounter at the RFUEA ground to snatch this crucial victory and with it the Kenya Cup diadem. The four points garnered was enough as KCB also failed to score enough points against Nakuru to force a count of point difference by only scoring 14 points to 7.Focus will now turn to the Enterprise Cup from next weekend. I will try to post the other results when I

• Weekend Games

  Posted: September 26, 2009, 2:28 am by DataMiner

  Down to the wire literally. And much as you may not like it, the winner of the Kenya Cup will be determined by how Quins play. Impala sit on top of the pile and would like the status quo to remain. KCB are a close second and need Impala to lose to... Quins. Quins sit third and must win with a bonus point over Impala to have any chance. And Nakuru at fourth have no chance but a win for them

• Kenya Cup - Week 13

  Posted: September 22, 2009, 10:31 pm by DataMiner

  And it doesn't get any better, does it. KCB out-thought Quins, Impala outlasted Nakuru, Mwamba ceded to Nondies and well.. the campus sides could not decide amongst themselves. As usual I was wrong most of the time, so maybe I stop guessing and start watching games and assessing actual strengths and tactics...The results leave Impala on top with KCB in second place. Quins lie third and Nakuru

• Kenya Cup Results 190909

  Posted: September 19, 2009, 11:19 pm by DataMiner

  KCB 18 Quins 12 Impala 14 Nakuru 13 Nondies 21 Mwamba 7. Last one when I get it.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: September 18, 2009, 5:10 pm by DataMiner

  The penultimate weekend in the Kenya Cup and all crucial clashes. Before going to the top of the league I'm just wondering what is supposed to happen at the bottom. Was there any real threat of relegation or are there no such rules when clubs like Machine are threatened? It's fairly easy to drop Mombasa or Kisumu, but the vested interests in Kenyan rugby would never allow Mean Machine to be

• Kenya Cup - Week 12

  Posted: September 15, 2009, 4:33 pm by DataMiner

  And what a weekend it was. Got three out of four wrong and maybe it is just a pointer that it is not so clear cut. In past seasons, by this point of the league it has been a simple two horse race. Last year improved it to a three horse race and this year it is a four horse race. With two matches to go, any of the top four teams still have a chance to win the Kenya Cup! That the Kenya Cup has

• Kenya Cup Results 120909

  Posted: September 12, 2009, 11:26 pm by DataMiner

  Impala 8 KCB 17 Nondies 20 Machine 10 Nakuru 3 Quins 12 Mwamba 11 Strathmore 20.

• Kenya Cup - Week 11 and Weekend Games

  Posted: September 11, 2009, 3:45 pm by DataMiner

  Last weekend lived up to our full expectations and making the calls is getting harder by the day. KCB dropped crucial points once more whilst Impala strode on majestically on, hopefully towards their first title in six years. Some thoughts I had on the Kenya Cup have been passed by as I was travelling a lot this week in remote areas, with scarce internet access, but I will hopefully post it

• Weekend Games

  Posted: September 4, 2009, 1:59 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya Cup action resumes this weekend after the international break. League leaders KCB take on Nondescripts, second placed Impala host a resugent Mean Machine, Nakuru host Strathmore and Quins host Mwamba.With the league tempo rising steadily, there are no foregone conclusions this time round. All sides except perhaps Nakuru have tricky ties, though their seeming lack of staying power may be

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: September 3, 2009, 2:14 pm by DataMiner

  The "International" Season is over and what have we to show for it? The senior men's team has played four matches, won two and lost two.. a 50% record so to speak, not bad. I'd taken it out already at the IRB and CAR a few weeks ago so I won't belabour that point. That we are not playing enough matches may not really be our fault, however, we must make most use of the matches we get, be it one

• Elgon Cup Result - Uganda 18 Kenya 13

  Posted: August 29, 2009, 10:52 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya squandered an early 13 3 lead to lose this match. A 10 minute period when centre Humphrey Kayange was in the sin bin late in the second half proved crucial as Uganda scored 10 unanswered points to snatch the victory.Uganda once more proved more patient and structured in their approach and once they but off the supply of ball to Collins Injera, they were comfortable.Do have a good weekend.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: August 28, 2009, 12:56 am by DataMiner

  Kenya Cup action takes a break this weekend for the return leg of the Elgon Cup. Kenya start off with an eight point advantage over Uganda in the men's category and with a 28 point advantage in the women's. Such deficits have previously been overcome especially in the past two years when the Kenya men overcame even twenty five point deficits to retain the cup. In the past two years, bot teams

• Elgon Cup - Return Match

  Posted: August 26, 2009, 1:07 pm by DataMiner

  Well, here we go. Once more I did not watch the team train, but I do not expect much to have changed. Whereas the Uganda RU are organised enough to have concluded their league before the "international season", our preparation has been hampered by league matches in between and hence players going back to train and play in their clubs. If the team had any structure, patterns or systems, I would

• Kenya Cup - Week 10

  Posted: August 24, 2009, 2:31 pm by DataMiner

  And full of thrills and spills it was. I got nearly all of them wrong and I don't know. Is it that the "weaker" teams are finally getting their act together or the "stronger" teams falling apart? It's difficult to tell, but it has heated up the race for the title. The results see KCB regain the lead, but only separated by points difference from Impala in second place. Nakuru remain at third

• Kenya Cup Results - 220809

  Posted: August 23, 2009, 4:03 am by DataMiner

  KCB 29 Strathmore 12 Machine 15 Quins 13 Nakuru 7 Nondies 8. Last result when I get it.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: August 21, 2009, 4:05 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya Cup matches resume after the break for the international match last weekend. With the top five teams separated by only three points, it makes for interesting watching as to how the table shapes up each week. Lucky are those who play the bottom teams as they potentially have the chance to rack up the points, and in the end that may be the difference between maybe first, second and third

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: August 20, 2009, 1:31 pm by DataMiner

  A lot has been said after our performance last weekend in the first leg of the Elgon Cup. For me, the display was expected, and I actually expected quite a big win. While we have not been very consistent in improving our game or our systems or our tactics or whatever, we have remained more or less flat. Two posts by Ruggerbug come to mind here to do with where we think our rugby is and what is

• Elgon Cup Update - Kenya 30 Uganda 22

  Posted: August 15, 2009, 9:49 pm by DataMiner

  As predicted, score first and fast, but a good show all the same. Biko Adema with a brace of tries, Wilson K'Opondo amd Dan Weku with one each and one I'll credit to the pack in general was good enough. Our goal kicking was off and will definitely be the decider in Kampala. Have a good weekend. I'm at the Heineken.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: August 14, 2009, 2:30 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya Cup action takes a break as the twin header Elgon Cup takes place in Nairobi. The women's teams will curtain raise for the men's from 2.00 p.m. I have not seen any of the training sessions but I will make some comments below.The Kenya women's team seem to have a very focused and dedicated coach in Sammy Kemmey. He has religiously taken the team through the paces and I have seen him mete

• Breaking News: Rugby for the Olympic Games?

  Posted: August 13, 2009, 9:06 pm by DataMiner

  Not quite yet. But the Executive Board of the International Olympic Committee have recommended that Rugby, alongside Golf, be included in the Olympic Games from 2016. The entire entire 106-member Assembly will meet to vote on whether to accept the sports or not in October of this year. You can read more here and here. Just a cautionary word from the archives.

• Elgon Cup on Despite Hiccup

  Posted: August 12, 2009, 8:26 pm by DataMiner

  Both the Kenya Rugby Football Union and the Uganda Rugby Union have decided to go on with the planned Elgon Cup fixtures despite the untimely withdrawal of East African Breweries as the sponsor for the matches. This leaves the two unions to dig deep into their pockets to foot the expenses to be incurred. The players may also have to forego some of the comfort they are accustomed to during such

• Kenya Cup - Week 9

  Posted: August 10, 2009, 3:18 pm by DataMiner

  And topsy turvy it went, as expected. As usual missed some and got some. Mwamba rose to the occasion and overcame KCB at home. The surprise package was Machine pulling off a draw in Nakuru. Just reading the signs, I think Nakuru grossly underrated their opponents and paid the price. Telling in this is do they have the mien of champions? They have the players, they have the skill, but twice

• Kenya Cup Results 08/08/09

  Posted: August 8, 2009, 11:00 pm by DataMiner

  Impala 19 Nondies 13 KCB 22 Mwamba 28 Quins 51 Strathmore 7 Nakuru 10 Machine 10.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: August 7, 2009, 4:19 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya Cup week 9 and not without controversy it seems. Once more international rugby takes the fore and the rest is sidelined. Interesting to note that despite many ground/field management courses availed and attended, KRFU seem to think the best way to maintain a ground in perfect playing condition is to close it off from use. Methinks that's how to maintain a paddock for animal pasture.. but

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: August 6, 2009, 1:10 pm by DataMiner

  I don't know how many of these I have done, and I felt maybe some messages were being passed on to the concerned parties. I felt that I had an audience and that I was being heard. We felt privileged that the powers that be sneaked into this blog, maybe to spy, maybe to defend themselves, maybe to know what was being said and MAYBE even to learn or understand at thing or two about good

• Kenya Cup - Week 8

  Posted: August 3, 2009, 7:21 pm by DataMiner

  The start of the second round and as usual it gets better and better. I missed the big one this time, Nakuru coming through by a point, though both sides got bonus points, Mwamba two of them. Other bonus point victories for Impala, Quins and KCB as well. Most disappointing were Nondies and Strathomre, barely putting up fight. The two tries Nondies scored were more as a result of Quins

• Kenya Cup Results 01/08/09

  Posted: August 1, 2009, 1:37 am by DataMiner

  Impala 39 Strathmore 3 KCB 34 Machine 15 Quins 31 Nondies 13 Mwamba 24 Nakuru 25.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: July 31, 2009, 3:29 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya Cup Rugby action continues this weekend. A good preview here. The second round has begun and perhaps the not so interesting games are on. However, don't imagine there will be no upsets. Most teams have found their footing and their rhythm. All players, bar injured, are available. And it is the stretch where any slip up is costly.Quins host Nondies at the KRFUEA grounds. Impala play

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: July 29, 2009, 2:32 pm by DataMiner

  Sorry for the missing Ramble last week. Sometimes my muse deserts me and I feel like a broken record most of the time. Many feelings I aired on this blog last year are still valid and it pains me that we are all trying to hide under the success of the Sevens team. That success is relative and not permanent has not entered our feeble collective psyche and we think we can ride on it forever.

• Kenya Cup - Week 7

  Posted: July 27, 2009, 3:00 pm by DataMiner

  At the halfway point, things are just hotting up. A loss by KCB to Nakuru has seen them lose their perch at the top of the league standings for the first time this year. The defending champions failed to defend effectively against Impala and conceded all points again. Nondies also failed to sparkle and allowed Strathmore to win their first game of the season. Mwamba continued with their

• Kenya Cup Results

  Posted: July 25, 2009, 1:17 am by DataMiner

  Impala 25 Quins 16 KCB 13 Nakuru 30 Mwamba 30 Machine 22 Nondies 24 Strathmore 28

• Weekend Games

  Posted: July 24, 2009, 2:58 pm by DataMiner

  The Kenya Cup reaches the half way stage this weekend, and for the top five sides, it is time to take stock of where they lie and their chances of wining the league. A good write up here. The top of the table clash between KCB and Nakuru will be the juiciest. The Impala vs. Quins match also has a lot of history and a battle of supremacy for the perennial rivals. That these two teams share a

• Kenya Cup - Week 6

  Posted: July 20, 2009, 2:57 pm by DataMiner

  Got some right and some wrong. And that 's the way it goes. Mwamba managed a bonus point victory over Nondies and KCB over Quins as well. The battle of the universities went to Machine and now the only team without a victory remains Strathmore. Nakuru also bounced back and beat Impala.Before I see the confirmations on scores and bonus points, it looks like KCB remain on top of the table,

• Kenya Cup Results 180709

  Posted: July 19, 2009, 2:43 pm by DataMiner

  Mwamba 28 Nondies 17 KCB 27 Quins 17 Machine 30 Strathmore 28 Nakuru 28 Impala 17.

• Kenya Cup Result - Mwamba 28 Nondies 17

  Posted: July 18, 2009, 4:25 pm by DataMiner

  Mwamba came out tops in this middle of the table clash and crawled slowly up the ladder. Deja vu perhaps.. but a certain team pulled this same stunt last year. Keep a close watch on this team.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: July 17, 2009, 1:13 pm by DataMiner

  Match day 6 of the Kenya Cup campaign and it is fast shaping up. You can find a good preview here. The battle for the cup is going to be long and vicious. The season has been long and for sure fatigue will set in at some point. The teams with good depth will have it easier as they will have players who have not really exerted themselves much this year, yet eager to prove that they are better

• Kenya Cup - Week 5

  Posted: July 13, 2009, 5:01 pm by DataMiner

  The Kenya Cup Rugby League is just getting interesting. I was wrong on the main match of the day, expecting KCB to overcome Impala with ease and I'll eat my words. I also expected the Quins/Nakuru match to be a battle but it was not to be. The other two matches were closer and this weekend everyone managed at least a point. Nondies won their first match and Strathmore keep getting better and

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: July 11, 2009, 4:06 pm by DataMiner

  Who is looking out for us?It seems that all public office is political. Whether actual political or government office, or even sporting bodies. All over institutions worldwide are run by those who play politics well, and not really by those who mean well for everyone else. Rugby is no different and let no one kid you that someone is looking out for your interest. It is simply a matter of

• Kenya Team to Face Morocco

  Posted: July 11, 2009, 2:57 pm by DataMiner

  Coach Michael "Tank" Otieno has named a largely unchanged side to face Morocco this afternoon in the final of the Northern Zone CAR Competition. The team shall be as below.15 Vincent Mose14 Leon Adongo13 Kelvin Omiyo12 Innocent Simiyu (captain)11 Naftaly Bondo10 Nato Simiyu9 Gibson Weru8 Gray Cullen7 Paul Oimbo6 Benedict Nyambu5 Mike Aung4 Wilson Kopondo3 Daniel Kiptoo2 Vincent Ong'era1 Joel

• Weekend Games

  Posted: July 10, 2009, 2:20 pm by DataMiner

  The Kenya Cup enters its fifth week with the big guns now having to face each other, having exhausted their easy start to the season. Kenya Harlequins host Nakuru, KCB host Impala, Machine host Nondies and Mwamba host Strathmore. Once more the Kenya team is away and it will affect performances. I expect the least affected will be Quins and KCB. Quins seem to have great depth and had no

• CAR Cup Update - Kenya 22 Senegal 7

  Posted: July 9, 2009, 12:56 pm by DataMiner

  Gray Cullen scored a brace of tries and captain Innocent Simiyu added one more for this win. Vincent Mose converted two and added a penalty of his own to make up the score. Kenya led 8 nil at half time courtesy on one of Cullen's tries and a Mose penalty.UPDATE: In the other match, Morocco overcame a stiff challenge from a much improved Cameroun side to win 12 nil. Kenya meet Morocco (in the

• CAR Cup Update - Kenya 22 Senegal 7

  Posted: July 9, 2009, 12:56 pm by DataMiner

  Gray Cullen scored a brace of tries and captain Innocent Simiyu added one more for this win. Vincent Mose converted two and added a penalty of his own to make up the score. Kenya led 8 nil at half time courtesy on one of Cullen's tries and a Mose penalty.

• CAR Cup Results - Kenya 22 Senegal 7

  Posted: July 8, 2009, 12:34 am by DataMiner

  Two tries by Gray Cullen and one by Innocent Simiyu were enough for the win. Vincent Mose topped up the points with two conversions and a penalty. Kenya led 8 nil at the break.

• Kenya Cup Week 4

  Posted: July 7, 2009, 8:41 pm by DataMiner

  An eventful weekend. The middle order rose to the occasion and Mwamba scraped a win through. Despite Impala fielding all its players due to leave for Casablanca on Sunday (I don't know whether this is allowed), they failed to click and squandered a myriad of chances against a Mwamba outfit that had exhausted all its energy, efforts and ideas by the 50th minute of the game. The following day

• Kenya Cup Results

  Posted: July 4, 2009, 1:05 am by DataMiner

  KCB 57 Nondies 12 Quins 33 Machine 12 Nakuru 33 Strathmore 22.

• Weekend Games

  Posted: July 3, 2009, 2:03 pm by DataMiner

  Kenya Cup Week 4 and the action starts today, Friday 03 July. Impala host H2O Mwamba under floodlights from 7.30 p.m. Tomorrow sees Nondies host KCB, Quins host Machine, whilst Strathmore will host Nakuru at Impala. I can already see the clubs are taking facility sharing a bit more seriously than others. I have my reservations as to the quality of lighting at the Impala pitch, but then again

• Weekly Ramble

  Posted: July 2, 2009, 7:16 pm by DataMiner

  Now that the dust has settled and we're in our normal stride, I think it is time to sit back and take stock of what we are, where we are, and where we want to be. Two posts by Ruggerbug come to mind here. You can review them here and here. We have had a largely successful season so far, by our standards. We have successfully hosted the Junior World Rugby Trophy and the Safari Sevens. That is

• Breaking News: Kenya 15's Team to Morocco Named

  Posted: July 2, 2009, 3:06 pm by DataMiner

  This is directly from the KRFU Press Release.The following is the Kenya 15s Team that will represent the country at this year’s Confederation of Africa Rugby Trophy tournament to be held in Casablanca, Morocco from Wednesday 8th July – Saturday 11th July 2009.The team is due to depart on Sunday 5th July 2009 at 1500hrs and return on Monday 13th July 2009.1. Vincent Ongera - Kenya Harlequin FC

• Kenya Cup - Week 3 and League Standings

  Posted: June 29, 2009, 7:26 pm by DataMiner

  As I expected Quins came unstuck against Mwamba. I hear there was a mighty duel between Collins Injera and Sidney Ashioya, the victor being Injera.. though that is the first of many battles to come this year for sure. KCB waltzed along over Strathmore to retain their standing at the top of the league. Impala also had a stroll though they seemed to have leaked quite a few points. Maybe people

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