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Rugby Africa Cup: Beldad Ogeta's hat-trick fires Kenya Simbas past Senegal
Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 20.07.24. | 16:18
The result sees Simbas proceed to the semifinals where they will play the winner of the match between Algeria and Ivory Coast
Kenya men's rugby 15s national team; Simbas sent a strong statement in their opening match of the Rugby Africa Cup staged at the iconic Mandela National Stadium, Uganda on Saturday, July 20. The Simbas defeated Senegal 36-17 in the pulsating encounter. ,
The match kicked off with Senegal edging ahead through a penalty before Kenya responded emphatically.
Eugene Sifuna of Kabras RFC crossed the whitewash for the first try, which was converted by Timothy Okwemba. Sifuna doubled Kenya’s advantage with a second try, though the conversion was unsuccessful this time.
The Simbas continued their dominance as speedster Beldad Ogeta touched down, with Okwemba converting to extend the lead.
Senegal managed to reduce the deficit with a penalty try, but Kenya’s momentum was evident.
However, the game took a turn as Kenya lost two players to the sin bin, providing Senegal with an opportunity to close the gap. Despite numerical disadvantage, Kenya held firm and added another try through Bryceson Adaka, that was converted by Okwemba.
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Senegal managed to score another try, but Kenya's resilience shone through as Ogeta secured his second try of the match, with Okwemba's conversion sealing the victory.
The result sees them proceed to the semifinals where they will play the winner of the match between Algeria and Ivory Coast.
A total of eight nations confirmed their place in the tournament that is set to began from the quarters stage.
Simbas were the losing finalists to Namibia in 2022, granting the Southern African nation a ticket to the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
Simbas squad against Senegal
1. Ephraim Oduor 2. Eugene Sifuna (VC) 3. Hillary Mwanjilwa 4. Ibrahim Ayoo 5. Hilary Odhiambo 6. George Nyambu (C) 7. Thomas Okeyo 8. Jeanson Misoga 9. Samson Onsomu (VC) 10. Barry Robinson 11. Beldad Ogeta 12. Walter Okoth 13. Bryceson Adaka 14. Derrick Ashiundu 15. Timothy Omela 16. Griffin Musila 17. Edward Mwaura 18. Wilhtie Mususi 19. Malcolm Onsando 20. Elkeans Musonye 21. Obat Kuke 22. Abutwalib Wesonga 23. Richel Wangila
