Menengai Oilers head coach Gibson Weru has called for tactical improvements from his side, even after their emphatic 42-26 victory over Kenya Harlequin on Saturday, January 25, at the RFUEA Grounds. The win extended the Oilers’ unbeaten streak to six matches, placing them among the top-performing teams in the league alongside KCB Rugby, Kabras Sugar, and Nondies.
The Nakuru-based team demonstrated their dominance once again, securing maximum points with a bonus point victory to remain in close pursuit of log leaders Kabras RFC. Despite their impressive form, Weru remains critical of certain aspects of the team’s performance, highlighting unforced errors, decision-making lapses, and tactical inefficiencies as areas that need to be addressed as the season progresses.
A Hard-Fought Encounter
The clash against Quins proved to be the Oilers’ toughest test of the season so far. While the team displayed resilience and depth, Weru acknowledged that the match revealed weaknesses that require attention. The game was evenly poised at halftime, with both sides locked at 13-13. However, the Oilers found their rhythm in the second half, scoring 29 points while restricting Quins to just 13.
Speaking after the match, Weru expressed his satisfaction with the result but emphasized the need for improvement in execution. “I am happy with the win, but I am not happy with the way we got it,” Weru admitted. “We had a lot of unforced errors and made poor decisions at critical moments. These are things we need to work on moving forward.”
Tactical Concerns
Weru also highlighted specific tactical shortcomings, particularly in the kicking game, which allowed Quins to capitalize on loose balls and mount counterattacks. “Some of the errors we made are very tactical. If you do not kick accurately, you give the opposition opportunities to counter-attack and put you under pressure,” he explained.
Despite these challenges, the Oilers’ second-half performance showcased their ability to adapt and respond under pressure. Weru made key adjustments at halftime, and the changes paid off as the team displayed greater cohesion and precision in the final 40 minutes. This adaptability will be crucial as the Oilers prepare for tougher challenges in the coming weeks.
Depth and Squad Rotation
The depth of the Oilers’ squad was evident in their ability to sustain high-intensity play despite early struggles. Weru praised his players for their determination and adaptability, particularly after halftime. “We made a few changes at halftime, and they changed the way we played. We have a quality team, and I am optimistic about our continued growth as we look ahead to the next matches,” Weru said.
The Oilers’ ability to rotate players and maintain performance levels will be a key factor in their pursuit of the league title. With a squad capable of stepping up in challenging situations, Weru is confident that the team can address their weaknesses and continue to compete at the highest level.
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Eyes on the Next Challenge
Looking ahead, the Oilers face an unbeaten Nondies RFC in their next fixture on Saturday, February 1. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams seek to maintain their impressive form. Nondies have yet to lose a match this season, setting up a high-stakes showdown that could have significant implications for the league standings.
Weru is relishing the opportunity to test his team against another top side, stating, “I am really excited because these are the types of matches that I want to play. They show you what is working and what is not working. We can use these matches to work on ourselves and get much better.”
The Oilers currently sit third on the log with 30 points, separated from leaders Kabras RFC only by point difference. With the league entering a critical phase, every match becomes a test of character, skill, and tactical discipline.
The Road Ahead
As the season progresses, the Oilers will need to address their tactical shortcomings to remain competitive against the league’s top teams. Weru’s focus on refining the team’s decision-making and execution reflects a commitment to continuous improvement, even in the face of success.
The clash against Nondies will provide a litmus test for the Oilers’ title aspirations. With Kabras RFC and KCB Rugby also in the mix, the competition at the top of the table is fiercer than ever. Weru’s emphasis on preparation and adaptability will be critical as the Oilers navigate the challenges ahead.
Building on Momentum
The Oilers’ six-match winning streak is a testament to their quality and determination. However, Weru’s insistence on addressing weaknesses highlights the team’s hunger for excellence. By focusing on tactical precision and minimizing errors, the Oilers can build on their momentum and solidify their status as genuine title contenders.
As the league enters the business end of the season, the Oilers’ ability to learn from their experiences and adapt to new challenges will determine their success. With a talented squad and a coach committed to continuous improvement, the Oilers are well-positioned to make a strong push for the title.
