This archive report was first published on 21 September 2019.
On September 21, 2019, Kenya Simbas made a triumphant return to form, defeating Zimbabwe Sables 36-14 in a Victoria Cup match at Nakuru Athletics Club.
The victory marked a sweet revenge for Kenya, who had previously lost to Zimbabwe 30-29 in the first leg of the match played at Hartsfield grounds in Bulawayo last month.
Kenya's superior ball handling and breakaways paved the way for their success, with centre Vincent Onyala emerging as the destroyer-in-chief. Onyala evaded his markers to score a brilliant try, which was superbly converted by full back Anthony Odhiambo.
Despite Zimbabwe's efforts, including a penalty attempt by scrumhalf Hilton Mudariki, Kenya pushed forward and were rewarded with a penalty by Odhiambo after 19 minutes.
The match saw several key moments, including the sin-binning of Tshmala Biselele of Zimbabwe and Toby Francombe of Kenya for unbecoming behaviour. Coach Paul Odera made strategic substitutions, introducing Frank Mutuu and Brian Juma, while resting Samuel Were and Emmanuel Mavala.
However, it was Zimbabwe who finally put their act together, scoring a try through Chibuwe Ngoni, which was executed by Dudlee Whitte Sharpley. Kenya regrouped and made several inroads into Zimbabwe's defence, culminating in a try by left wing Timothy Okwemba, which Odhiambo converted.
On the stroke of half-time, Kenya scored a penalty through Francombe to lead 17-7 at interval. The second half saw several tries scored by both teams, including one by Anthony Omondi, who made the conversion. Charles Kuka and Samuel Were added the extras in the second half, with Anthony Omondi missing one conversion and scoring the other.
