In a commanding display, the Kenya Simbas demolished the Zimbabwe Goshawks with an impressive 48-7 victory in the Mzansi Challenge at Nakuru Athletic Club.
The Simbas, determined to secure their second win in the competition and avenge their narrow 2022 loss, started the match in full force.
The scoring spree began early, as eighth-man Jeanson Misoga scored Kenya’s opening try, swiftly followed by a successful conversion from Ntabeni Dukisa, granting Kenya a 7-0 lead.
Captain George Nyambua extended Kenya’s advantage with an unconverted try, further asserting their dominance. However, the Zimbabwe Goshawks managed to pull back with a converted try by Patrick Macklin, narrowing the gap to five points.
Undeterred, Kenya swiftly widened the margin, with Alfred Orege bulldozing over the line from a rolling maul, although the subsequent conversion attempt was unsuccessful.
Misoga continued his impressive performance, adding another try to his name by rising off the scrum within the Goshawks’ five-meter zone. The successful conversion brought the score to 24-7 in favor of Kenya.
Heading into halftime, Kenya held a commanding lead of 22 points, with Orege crossing over for his second try of the day, matching Misoga’s brace.
As the second half commenced, Samuel Asati made his mark with a well-earned try, converted to stretch Kenya’s lead to 36-7. Orege completed his remarkable hat-trick, showcasing his prowess on the field. Hibrahim Ayoo then sealed Kenya’s victory with another try, leaving no doubt about the team’s dominant performance.
Kenya will be hoping to carry the form in the final two games.
Kenya Simbas vs Zimbabwe Goshawks squad
1. Ephraim Oduor 2. Griffin Musila 3. Hillary Mwanjilwa 4. Brian Juma 5. Hilary Odhiambo 6. George Nyambua – C 7. Brian Ndirangu 8. Jeanson Musoga 9. Samuel Asati – VC 10. Jone Kubu 11. Alfred Orege 12. Peter Kilonzo 13. Joel Inzuga 14. Bildad Ogeta 15. Ntabeni Dukisa
16. Eugene Sifuna 17. Thomas Okidia 18. Wilhite Mususi 19. Hibrahim Ayoo 20. Elkeans Musonye 21. Brian Wahinya 22. Bryceson Adaka 23. Lameck AmbetsaJerome Paarwater – Head Coach Jimmy Mnene – Team Manager Stephen Mankone – Physiotherapist
1. Kevin Nqindi 2. Neil Mawere 3. Tawanda Mudyiwa 4. Patrick Macklin 5. Tadiwanashe Gwashu 6. Simba Sihara 7. Gideon Maseka 8. Aiden Burnett 9. Hilton Mudariki (captain) 10. Takudzwa Musingwini 11. Cletos Sunduza 12. Tamuka Pamire 13. Russell Dinha 14. Gamu Nekati 15. Taddy Dzandiwandira.
Substitutes: 15. Bornwell Gwinji 16. Vuyiswa Mpofu 18. Brian Makamure 19. Tapiwa Muberekwa 20. Joseph Chigwida 21. Pride Nyameni 22. Ben Pattenden 23. Maclean Muhambi 24. Aaron Juma.
