October 15, 2024

South Pirates,Impala battle for KRU Championship glory

South Pirates,Impala battle for KRU Championship glory
South Coast Pirates in past action/File Photo

While both South Coast Pirates and Impala have already secured their spots in the Kenya Cup, the focus now shifts to determining the KRU Championship winner for the 2023/24 season.

The final showdown between these two teams is set to take place at the Seacrest Ground in Diani on Saturday, April 6, 2024. South Coast Pirates earned the right to host this crucial match as the highest-ranked team remaining in the competition after the league phase.

 Finishing second in the league phase, they earned a home semifinal where they defeated Daystar Falcons 30-15, securing their maiden Kenya Cup qualification.

 

 Finishing second in the league phase, they earned a home semifinal where they defeated Daystar Falcons 30-15, securing their maiden Kenya Cup qualification.

On the other hand, Impala, with a rich history of ten Kenya Cup titles, fought through the regular season to claim the fourth spot. They then overcame Western Bulls 32-17 before edging past Masinde Muliro 12-11 in the semifinals, marking their return to the top tier after being relegated at the end of the 2021/22 season.

With both teams eyeing a stylish conclusion to their fifteens season, anticipation runs high for the upcoming final.

Reflecting on their Kenya Cup qualification, South Coast Pirates Head Coach Kevin Amiani expressed gratitude to the fans, acknowledging their unwavering support through thick and thin. He dedicated the triumph to them, emphasizing the role of the fans as the team's "16th player," adding that the victory was owed to them.

Meanwhile, Impala Head Coach Malik Ndemi emphasized the importance of reinstating player commitment and discipline. He outlined a clear process-oriented approach, prioritizing skill development before performance. Ndemi's philosophy centered on laying down the groundwork for success, ensuring that his players were equipped with the necessary skills before taking to the field.