Sigalagala qualified for the KRU Nationwide semifinals, edging closer to the KRU Championship after pipping Eldopoly Community 27-26 in a thrilling clash at Eldoret Polytechnic.
The hosts got off to a dream start, scoring through Ben Macharia after sustained early pressure, with Owen Kedera adding the extras moments after missing a penalty.
Benjamin Brill responded for Sigalagala with a well-taken penalty to cut the deficit to 7-3. Reagan Mbeyi was later yellow-carded, and Sigalagala capitalized in the 24th minute when Samuel Juma sliced through following an overload on the right wing to score a converted try.
Ten minutes later, Brill added another three-pointer to hand Sigalagala a 13-7 lead.
Eldon Keya responded for the hosts just before halftime, diving over in the corner to narrow the gap to just a point heading into the break.
In the second half, Idris Atemba was yellow-carded before Sigalagala were also reduced to 14 men for what was adjudged to be an intentional tap-down, with the referee awarding a penalty try.
Sixteen minutes into the half, Reagan Omondi crossed under the posts after Sigalagala were caught napping in defence. Owen Kedera converted for a 26-13 lead.
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Sensing danger, Sigalagala fought back bravely, with scrum-half Alex Tirimba diving over for a converted try in the 69th minute to make it 26-20.
The Sigalagala outfit struck again three minutes later through Felix Opondo, whose converted try handed them a dramatic 27-26 lead.
Despite Benjamin Brill missing two late penalties, Sigalagala held on to secure the victory.
Elsewhere, Kabarak University booked their place in the semifinals with a commanding 24-11 victory over Kisii Polytechnic.
Kenya Prisons also advanced after seeing off Makueni RFC 23-6 in a solid display.
Elsewhere, AP Warriors cruised into the last four with a dominant 30-6 win over Kilifi Titans.
Nationwide Quarterfinal results:
- Kisii Polytechnic 11-24 Kabarak Uni
- Kenya Prisons 23-06 Makueni RFC
- Eldopoly Community 26-27 Sigalagala NP
- AP Warriors 30-06 Kilifi Titans
