Koyonzo Boys who were the 2023 Federation of East Africa Secondary School Sports Association (FEASSSA) Rugby 7s champions have reclaimed what rightfully belonged to them after winning the Western Region rugby 7s championships. They did this in style, winning the final 24-07 against Vihiga Boys at St Peter’s Grounds on Wednesday.
The highly anticipated knockout matches were disrupted on Saturday as referees staged a go-slow over outstanding payments. It was the unforeseen issue that brought proceedings to a standstill just when the critical knockout stage was about to get underway; until that particular moment, 48 matches had already played in the pool stages.
In what seemed like a repeat of last year’s Western Region rugby 7s final, Koyonzo was resolute to claim the title. They managed to dominate the first half as they led Vihiga Boys 12-0. Though Vihiga came back strongly in the second half, trying and converting to narrow the gap to 12-07, Koyonzo’s resolute defense and unwavering attack ensured the team garnered two more tries and conversions. With this, the match ended 24-07 to crown Koyonzo Boys as champions.
In the girls’ category, the win was taken by Madira Girls against Mbakalo Girls after their 19-00 semifinal win was quite decisive over Kimobo. The win for Madira was retained despite an appeal that challenged their performance. They took the Western region girls’ title in the finals with a tough 15-05 win over their rivals.
Koyonzo, Vihiga, Musingu Boys, and St Peters all booked a place in the Western Region semifinals after showcasing great performances at the quarterfinals. Musingu sealed their place at the semifinals following a 15-5 win over Kimobo, while St. Peters progressed due to Chavakali’s failure to turn up, handing them a walkover. Vihiga, the 2023 East African and National finalists, booked their place following a narrow 19-10 win over Kakamega School. Koyonzo booked a place at the semifinals with a convincing 22-0 win over Kibabii.
The Term Two national games are set to take place in Kisii from Monday, July 29, to Wednesday, August 7. Regional champions Koyonzo and Madira now set their eyes on national triumph.