Fierce Oilers win Impala floodlit tournament, set eyes on Kenya cup
Menengai Oilers win second Impala floodlit title on November 8, 2025 .
Nakuru-based Menengai Oilers reaffirmed their dominance in Kenyan rugby this weekend after clinching the 42nd edition of the Impala Floodlit Tournament, defeating Nondescripts RFC 32–20 in a thrilling final played at the Impala Club on Saturday November 8 night.
Oilers, who entered the competition as defending champions, successfully retained their crown to become two-time Floodlit champions, having lifted their maiden title in 2024 after overcoming hosts Impala RFC.
To secure their place in this year’s final, the Oilers navigated a tough route, edging out arch-rivals KCB RFC 16–13 in the quarterfinals before sweeping past Black Bald 42–21 in the semifinals to book their spot in the championship decider.
In the final, Oilers signaled their intent from the start, with Ibrahim Ayoo crashing over for the opening try.
Chrispine Shitundo then added a second, converted by Timothy Omela, giving the Nakuru outfit an early lead.
Nondescripts responded with determination, with Ryan Odrua scoring twice to narrow the gap, while Bruce Odhiambo added a penalty that brought them within touching distance.
However, the Oilers’ discipline and superior game management proved decisive in the second half.
Fortune Aturo powered over from a rolling maul before Beldad Ogeta sealed the win with a blistering solo run across the pitch.
Omela converted and added a late penalty, confirming the 32–20 victory and back-to-back titles for the resilient Nakuru side.
In a phone interview with Mtaa Wangu, Menengai Oilers Head Coach Gibson Weru, fondly known as Gibu, described the triumph as the product of long-term vision and consistent hard work.
Oilers head coach Gibson Weru at the Refinery grounds where they won against Nondescripts on their Kenya Cup Match day 8 on February 1,2025 .
“It’s a very exciting time for the club, our fans, and our sponsors. Personally, I’m very proud of the achievement. It’s something we have been building toward, a team that can win tournaments and trophies. It’s been a long journey since we started this club nine years ago, and this win shows how far we have come.” he says.
Weru praised Nondescripts for their spirited challenge.
“Nondies really came out strong, they fought hard. But I think our championship mentality is beginning to grow, and hopefully we can now translate that into the Kenya Cup League,” he adds, confirming the final score as 32–20.
Reflecting on the club’s performance, Weru credited their solid pre-season for laying the foundation for success.
“We have had the best pre-season in our club’s history, starting with a tough win against KCB and a tour of Kampala, where we played there. It gave us a good sense of where we stand,” he says.
With the Kenya Cup season set to kick off in a fortnight, Weru says the team’s continuity and leadership will be key.
“We have managed to keep most of our players and build strong combinations. The leadership group has kept the boys grounded and accountable. If we can improve even five percent from last season, we will be in a great place,” he notes.
Weru also lauded the Oilers’ loyal supporters for their unwavering encouragement.
“Our fans have been amazing, their energy feels like having an extra player on the field. We ask them to keep backing us as we push for the main one, the Kenya Cup,” he says appreciating the fans' support in ensuring the Floodlit trophy got to Nakuru.