Wolves came from behind to win the Kenya Rugby League Federation men’s Grand Final, defeating Rift Valley’s Ruffians 18-14 at the Impala Stadium, Nairobi.
Protus Nanga’s try five minutes from time secured victory in a terrific game in which Wolves scored four tries to their opponents two. Wolves’ coach John Mkala said: “This has been the conclusion of a very successful season. Being Crowned Premiership Champions is testament of the great journey we have had.
“My congratulations go to Ruffians who were worthy opponents. They gave as good as they got and indeed this game could have gone either way as little separated us. A special thanks to John Mbai and the entire team behind him at KRLF for organizing and managing a good championship that can only get bigger and better.”
Ruffians started strongly, leading 12-10 at half time but couldn’t convert enough of their pressure into points. Player/coach Lawrence Okello noted: “The season has been a long journey that was full of growth and development, seeing the game played in different regions was a great show that has helped the sport expand. We still believe that our time is coming and soon we will clinch the title.”
Wolves also played in the women’s Grand Final but were beaten 36-8 by AP Warriors, centre Faith Achieng with two of their four tries and all seven of their shots at goal successful. They were dominant in the first half, leading 22-0 at the break.
Frederick David, coach of AP Warriors, commented: "We are extremely happy to be crowned champions in the maiden women's competition. The game was harder than it looks and Wolves gave a good account of themselves. We play them again in the knock-out cup competition and this will no doubt be a tougher game. For now we will enjoy the win."
MEN’S GRAND FINAL
Wolves 18
Edwin Watulo, Nick Mkongo, Godfrey Kisero, Augustine Simuyu, Tony Allan, Evans Omondi, Collins Ochieng, Collins Omondi, Edgar Salano, Noah Jeddy, Kelly Omari, Kazuki Oteki, Bryson Kinyangi,
(Subs) Joseph Chweix, Protus Nanga, Masudi Athuman, Puis Mbale
Tries: Masudi Athuman (15) , Noah Jeddy (22), Tony Allan (50) , Protus Nanga (75)
Goals: Colins Ochieng 1/4
Ruffians 14
Lawerence Okello, Victor Ndungu, Joseph Nun, Timothy Thimba, Ibrahim Adida, Lucky Otieno, Solomon Ndirangu, Opate Ashoya, Benny Kudende, Godwin Matwali, Barnabas Osaro, Joseph Doti, Peter Mwangi, (Subs) John Njoroge, Denzel Emmanuel, Edwin Abunqana, Felix Ochieng Ouma
Tries: Joseph Nun (4) , Timothy Thimba (19)
Goals: Joseph Nun 1/1, Ibrahim Adida 2/2
Half time: 10-12
WOMEN’S GRAND FINAL
AP Warriors 36
Alice Gathoni, Nicole Jedi, Lovinah Misera, Faith Aehieng, Maxine Abuda, Milkah Chitechi, Atieno Awour, Naomi Moshuusi, Shadon Mothysi, Arine Mmbone, Sophye Nabwire, Phoebe Otteruo, Clarice Muthamb
(Subs) Maria Gacheru, Clarice Oshior, Angela Makhupe, Daina Ommso
Tries: Phoebi Otteruo (13), Faith Achieng (32, 40), Sophye Nabwire (52)
Goals: Milkah Chitechi 5/5, Diana Omuso 2/2,
Wolves 8
Benza Bosibori, Kahindi Mlongo, Miriam Onyikwa, Verien Kerubo, Violet Kerubo, Rose Akal, Florence Akinyi, Elizabeth Katunge, Angel Catherine, Florise Andika, Rita Mwanzinge, Rahab Wanjiku, Edith Sally
(Subs) Celestine Adhiambo, Emmaculate Moraa, Lucy Elkana, Mitchelle Alivista
Tries: Verine Kerubo (58) Edith Sally (80)
Half time: 22-0
Referee: Esther Nyambura