Five converted tries in the second half saw South Africa U20 mount a strong comeback to defeat Kenya Simbas 42-24 in a friendly match played on Sunday in Stellenbosch.
This was the Simbas’ first encounter with the Junior Boks since their 42-19 defeat at the same venue in 2023.
Kenya Simbas draw
Jerome Paarwater’s charges, who had drawn 17-17 with SWD Eagles on Tuesday, fell behind early as the Junior Boks opened the scoring with a converted try for a 7-0 lead.
The Simbas responded through their captain George Nyambua, who powered over the line off a rolling maul. Centre Walter Okoth followed with a well-worked try, which Timothy Omela converted, giving the Simbas a 12-7 advantage after one missed conversion.
The momentum continued for Kenya as they were awarded a penalty try, extending the lead to 19-7. Nyambua then completed his brace, and despite a missed conversion, the Simbas held a commanding 24-7 lead at halftime.
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As has been the norm during the tour, the Simbas introduced an entirely new lineup for the second half.
The Junior Boks capitalized on the changes and came out firing, scoring two converted tries in the opening seven minutes to narrow the gap to just three points.
They sustained the pressure and added three more converted tries, including one from a well-executed maul off a lineout, to complete the comeback and secure a 42-24 win.
The Simbas will face South Africa U20 again on Saturday, June 14, in Stellenbosch. They will then take on Sanlam Boland in Wellington on Friday, June 20.
The final leg of the tour features back-to-back matches against Limpopo on Tuesday, June 24, and Thursday, June 26, both in Limpopo.
Kenya Simbas squads
Team 1
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Ephraim Oduor
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Eugene Sifuna
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Wilhite Mususi
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Hibrahim Ayoo
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Andycole Omolo
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George Nyambua
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Patrick Sabatia
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Obat Kuke
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Samuel Asati
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Barry Young
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Griffin Chao
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Walter Okoth
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Bryceson Adaka
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Derrick Ashihundu
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Timothy Omela
Team 2
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Edward Mwaura
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Griffin Musila
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Melvin Thairu
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Brian Juma
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Emanuel Silungi
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Teddy Akala
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Elvis Olukusi
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Collins Indeche
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Samson Onsomu
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Brian Wahinya
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Beldad Ogeta
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Samuel Ovwamu
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Tyson Maina
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John Okoth
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Brian Tanga
