Africa-Press – Kenya. Menengai Oilers head coach Gibson Weru has described his side’s 29-20 loss to Kabras in the Enterprise Cup semifinal as a timely wake-up call ahead of the Kenya Cup playoffs.
The Nakuru-based outfit fell to Kabras for the 11th time, but Weru drew encouragement from the performance, insisting it offered valuable lessons as they prepare for Saturday’s quarterfinal clash against Nondescripts at home.
“I saw good things from the boys, unlike our last game in the pool phase, where we were outplayed. The boys put up a good shift in all facets of play—from our set piece to defence to attack. It gives me confidence that in the latter stages of the competition, we can do something special,” said Weru.
However, the tactician pointed to inefficiency in attack as a key area that needs improvement. “We need to be sharper in our attack efficiency. We put them under immense pressure in the first half, but could not convert that pressure into points. With a couple of more training sessions, we can be more clinical in the final third,” he added.
Weru also hinted at possible tactical adjustments as the playoffs approach, noting that his side must evolve to stay competitive. “We will come up with something new for the remaining matches of the season and look at staying ahead of the opposition,” he said.
Despite the Oilers’ dominant recent record against Nondies—including a convincing 41-6 win in February—Weru is bracing for a much tougher contest this time around. “Playoff matches are always difficult. It’s about playing in the right areas, maximising your strengths and taking your chances.
Nondies are a good, well-coached side, and we will not be underestimating them despite our past results,” he noted. “The playoff contest will be closer than the regular-season game. They have also played in the Enterprise Cup semis and will be hurting from that loss, so we must be ready for what they will throw at us,” he added. The winner of the clash will face KCB in the semifinals, while the victor between Strathmore Leos and Blak Blad will take on defending champions Kabras.
