NAIROBI, Kenya, July 8 – The national 15s team launched their Africa Cup Division 1A campaign with a bang after mauling hosts Zimbabwe 61-15 in a match played on Saturday in Harare.
Daniel Sikuta and David Ambunya notched a brace of tries each with Max Adaka, Dennis Muhanji and Edwin Achayo also touching down to increase Kenya’s chances of reclaiming the title that is held by Namibia.
In a first half that the Simbas dominated, the Sables found themselves trailing from the first minutes before they reduced the deficit from the penalty.
The Simbas, who entered the match from beating Uganda 42-10 in Elgon Cup, were determined to avenge last year’s 28-20 defeat when they dotted down three more tries to head to the break leading 24-15.
It was the last time the hosts were seeing the whitewash as Kenya returned re-energized in the second half where they added six tries to wrap up the win.
The last period was launched by a penalty that was well converted by Darwin Mukidza before Muhanji put the icing on the cake minutes later to make it 15-39.
Mwamba ace Sikuta then opened his account, followed by Achayo’s try that was converted by Mukidza.
Sikuta was at it again to complete his brace as Adaka, who made a comeback after two-weeks of layoff to recover from concussion, grounded the last try.
Kenya now prepares to face champions Namibia next weekend in Windhoek where a win will see them only need to beat Uganda on July 30 to reclaim the title.