Gibson Weru, the head coach of Menengai Oilers, has thrown down the gauntlet to his players following their back-to-back defeats in the finals of the Dala 7s and Kabeberi 7s. Despite their impressive journey to the finals, the Oilers were unable to secure victory, falling to Kabras RFC and KCB Rugby, respectively. These losses, while disappointing, have only served to strengthen Weru’s resolve to see his team rise above these setbacks as they prepare for the final two legs of the 2024 National Sevens Circuit.
Lessons from Final Defeats: Staying Hungry and Proactive
The Menengai Oilers’ journey to the finals of the Dala 7s and Kabeberi 7s showcased their potential and determination, yet the final hurdle proved elusive. Coach Gibson Weru has emphasized the importance of these experiences, urging his players to stay hungry for victory. “I tell them that they really must be hungry to win a final. It is not given to them,” Weru stated, underscoring the need for the team to be more proactive in critical moments.
The losses highlighted areas where the team must improve, particularly in making swift and effective decisions during high-pressure situations. Weru acknowledged that the Oilers missed key opportunities in both finals, and these are lessons that the team must internalize as they move forward. “Critical moments require critical decisions. If we do not react effectively, then it becomes hard to come back,” Weru added, stressing the importance of learning from these experiences.
Building on Experience: The Role of Returning Players
One of the challenges the Oilers faced earlier in the season was the lack of experienced players, which Weru believes contributed to their inconsistent performances. The team started the circuit on a low note, finishing sixth in the Christie 7s and seventh in the Ingo 7s. However, as more seasoned players returned to the fold, the Oilers’ performance improved significantly, culminating in their appearances in the finals of the Dala 7s and Kabeberi 7s.
Weru highlighted the impact of having experienced players back in the squad, noting that their presence has been crucial in the team’s recent successes. “It is the personnel. The first legs we had a young team. We were averaging eight debutants per tournament, and it is not easy to win with such a calibre of players,” he revealed. With the return of experienced players, the team has been able to gel better, and this cohesion will be vital as they aim to secure a title in the remaining legs of the circuit.
The Road Ahead: Preparing for the Final Two Legs
As the 2024 National Sevens Circuit approaches its final stages, Weru remains optimistic about his team’s chances. The Oilers currently sit fourth on the log with 60 points, just 15 points behind the log leaders, Kenya Harlequin. With two more legs to go, the Driftwood 7s and Prinsloo 7s, Weru believes that his team has what it takes to bounce back and claim victory.
The Driftwood 7s, scheduled to take place from September 7 to 8, will be a crucial test for the Oilers. This tournament will be an opportunity for the team to apply the lessons learned from their previous defeats and to demonstrate their resilience. Following Driftwood, the circuit will conclude with the Prinsloo 7s in Nakuru from September 14 to 15, which will be the final chance for the Oilers to secure a title this season.
Weru is confident that his team can rise to the occasion, leveraging their experience and the hunger that has been building over the course of the season. “We still have two legs to try and win them all. It will not be easy, but the players will leverage the experience they are getting to play well,” he stated, expressing his belief that the team’s perseverance will pay off in the end.
Overcoming Disappointment: A Path to Redemption
The disappointment of losing two finals in a row is not lost on Weru or his players. However, rather than dwelling on these setbacks, Weru has chosen to use them as motivation for the team to push harder in the remaining legs of the circuit. He acknowledges that finals are games of very tight margins, and the Oilers must focus on closing these gaps if they are to succeed.
“Two finals, two losses, it was very disappointing. I felt that we were not in this final, and the Dala 7s as well. A final is a game of very tight margins. It is up to the players,” Weru reflected. The challenge now is for the team to take these experiences and turn them into positive outcomes as they approach the last two tournaments.
The Oilers’ journey this season has been one of highs and lows, but their resilience and determination have remained constant. With the guidance of Weru and the growing experience within the squad, the team is well-positioned to overcome the obstacles that have held them back and to finish the season on a high note.
Conclusion: A Season of Growth and Potential
As the Menengai Oilers prepare for the final legs of the 2024 National Sevens Circuit, they do so with the knowledge that they have the potential to achieve greatness. The setbacks they have faced in the finals of the Dala 7s and Kabeberi 7s have only served to fuel their desire for victory. Under the leadership of Gibson Weru, the team is focused, motivated, and ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead.
With experienced players back in the squad and the lessons learned from previous defeats, the Oilers have every reason to believe that they can turn their season around. The Driftwood 7s and Prinsloo 7s offer a final opportunity for redemption, and the team is determined to make the most of it. As the circuit draws to a close, the Menengai Oilers are poised to leave their mark and, hopefully, claim the title that has so far eluded them.
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