Kenya Simbas triumph over Senegal in Rugby Africa Cup opener

The game began with Senegal taking an early lead through a penalty, however, Kenya quickly regained control.

Eugene Sifuna opened the scoring for the Simbas with a try, converted by Timothy ‘Okwemba’ Omela, putting Kenya ahead 7-3.

Sifuna soon added a second try, though the conversion was missed, extending the lead to 12-3. Beldad Ogeta then sliced through the Senegalese defense to score a center post try, with Omela converting, pushing the score to 19-3.

Senegal managed to score a penalty try just before halftime, reducing the deficit to 19-10, and Kenya’s Okeyo was sent to the sin bin, leaving the Simbas with 14 men as the second half commenced.

Kenya responded strongly after the break, with Bryceson Adaka scoring a try, converted by Omela, to extend the lead to 26-10. Senegal fought back with a try, bringing the score to 26-17, but their momentum was halted when Ephraim was sent to the sin bin, and Okeyo returned to the pitch.

A penalty against Senegal allowed Barry to add three more points for Kenya, making it 29-17. In the final minutes, Beldad Ogeta sealed the victory with his second try, bringing the final score to 36-17.

The Kenya Simbas' performance in this opening match sets a positive tone for their Rugby Africa Cup campaign, demonstrating their readiness and determination to qualify for the 2027 World Cup.