Menengai Oilers to begin Floodlit title defense against KCB

The event was hosted at the Impala, signaling the start of the 42nd edition of the Impala Floodlit tournament set for October 18 to November 1 at the Impala Club.

In other club quarter final fixtures, hosts Impala will take on Mwamba, with the Kenya Harlequin taking on Blak Blad, as Nondies face Strathmore all for a slot in the tournament’s semi-finals.

In the lady’s category, which will feature four sides, defending champions Mwamba face Northern Suburbs, with Impala Roans taking on next door neighbours Quins Queens in a Ngong Road derby fixture.

There will be a new winner in the University’s category, with last year’s winners Rift Valley Varsities not featuring this year.

Kabete Stallions will face USIU in the first quarter final, with JKUAT taking on the Swaras of Impala, quarter final three will pit Machine against Daystar with KCA facing Zetech in the last quarter final.

Commenting on the draw, Blak Blad’s Archadius Khwesa said, “It is not a bad draw, we look forward to the encounter against Quins, we expect to do much better than we did last season, where we got knocked out at the semifinals, this year we are looking to go all the way and claim our first Floodies title.”

“The Impala Floodlit tournament is quite important to teams as it gives us the opportunity to test our systems and combinations against the best, heading into the new season,” he added.

Speaking on the tournament’s preparations and draw, Impala Rugby Club vice chairman Alvin Rachier said, “We are excited to host the 42nd edition of the Impala floodlit tournament from the 18th of October to the 1st of November. 

"This tournament has grown to become a highlight of Kenya rugby’s calendar and we can’t wait to see what episode 42 holds. Going by the draw we’ve just had, there are some very exciting matches on day one, which should set the stage for an exciting tournament.”

“We are making final touches to the field and lights in preparation of the tournament, also closing conversations on partnerships to ensure both the fan and player experience is memorable.

Tickets are currently available on Tikohub, I want to call upon all the rugby fans to take advantage of the early sales,” he added.