The Kenya Simbas unleashed their dominance, securing a resounding 48-7 victory over their rivals, the Zimbabwe Goshawks in a thrilling Currie Cup First Division match held at Nakuru Athletics Club on Saturday.
From the moment South African referee Stephan Geldenhuys blew his whistle, the hosts took control of the proceedings.
Kenya Simbas’ South African coach, Jerome Paarwater, couldn’t contain his delight after the match. “Last week, we were unfortunate against Namibia, but today I am pleased with the team’s progress.
It’s a great feeling to win at home. I have ambitious plans for the team, but I need a long-term contract with the Kenya Rugby Football Union, ideally for at least four years. I want to lead Kenya to the World Cup,” expressed Paarwater.
Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s coach, Brendan Dawson, admitted that Kenya proved to be the superior side. “The result clearly shows that Kenya outplayed us. I accept defeat with a true sportsman’s spirit. It was a heated match, and the truth is told, Kenya displayed excellent performance. I expected a fierce contest from them, especially playing on their home turf,” acknowledged Dawson.
Dawson attributed the loss to his relatively “young and inexperienced team,” which he is in the process of moulding. “The average age of my players in this squad is between 21-22 years, whereas Kenya boasts a wealth of experience. We couldn’t match their speed and skill,” he added.
The floodgates opened for Kenya when Jimson Misoga brilliantly scored the first try, which was successfully converted by Dukisa Ntaben. George Nyambua extended the lead with another try, also converted by Ntaben.
Zimbabwe managed to reduce the deficit with a try from Patrick Macklin, converted by Tadius Blessings. However, Kenya quickly regained their lead when Alfred Obonyo scored another try.
Jimson Misoga crossed over for a second try, although Ntaben missed the conversion. Just before halftime, Alfred Obonyo dived over the line, securing a commanding 29-7 lead for the Kenyan team.
The hosts maintained their momentum in the second half, scoring three more tries through Samuel Asati, Alfred Obonyo, and Ibrahim Ayoo, with Ntaben successfully converting two of them.
