Kenya Simbas winger Griffin Chao was crowned the Most Valuable Player in the recently concluded Elgon Cup, played over two weekends.
Chao, making only his second appearance for the national team, impressed with his standout performances in both legs.
Kenya Simbas try
The Kabras Sugar RFC winger made his debut in the Nairobi leg, where Kenya narrowly edged Uganda 27-25, scoring his first try for the Simbas.
Kenya Simbas winger Griffin Chao hoists MVP trophy. PHOTO/Uganda Rugby Union
His stellar form, showcased in the Rugby Super Series, earned him a spot in the Simbas squad. In the decisive 21-5 victory over Uganda in the return leg, Chao was instrumental, playing the full match and delivering a series of brilliant plays that underlined his value to the team.
The Simbas secured the Elgon Cup on a 48-30 aggregate, demonstrating a clinical first-half display and resolute defense in the second half.
The match began with Kenya taking control in the third minute when Ephraim Oduor powered over for the opening try after sustained pick-and-drive phases. Timothy Okwemba added the conversion for a 7-0 lead. Uganda’s Shakim Ssembusi missed a penalty shortly after, keeping the scores unchanged.
Vice-captain Eugene Sifuna extended Kenya’s lead in the 18th minute, latching onto a clever pass from Brian Wahinya following a failed clearance attempt by Uganda’s Aaron Ofoywroth. Okwemba’s conversion brought the score to 14-0.
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The relentless Simbas pressure resulted in a third try. Andy Cole Omolo forced a knock-on from Uganda’s Conrad Wanyama, and Wahinya’s subsequent pass found Omolo, who dived over for the try. Okwemba’s conversion extended the lead to 21-0.
Uganda came close to replying when Innocent Gwokto broke through, but Alfred Orege’s decisive tackle denied the try. Although Orege was sin-binned for his effort, Uganda failed to capitalize on the temporary advantage, leaving Kenya with a commanding halftime lead.
The second half saw a spirited Ugandan side test Kenya’s defense. Despite the introductions of Jone Kubu and Sam Onsomu for the Simbas, the scoreline remained unchanged until Uganda’s Sydney Gongodyo fended off Chao to score a consolation try late in the game.
Kenya’s robust defense and clinical execution sealed a deserved victory, with Chao’s contributions earning him the MVP accolade. The Simbas end their year on a high, retaining the Elgon Cup and showcasing the depth and talent in their squad.
