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Kenya narrowly edged out a spirited Uganda Cranes side 27-25 in Nairobi, and have their work cut out to get the overall victory away in Kampala next week.
The Kenya Simbas had to labor to beat Uganda Cranes in the opening leg of the 2024 Victoria-Elgon Cup on Saturday.
Held at Nairobi's RFUEA Ground along Ngong Road, the annual clash once again fueled the traditional rivalry between the two East African rugby powerhouses, as Kenya managed a narrow 27-25 win.
The game started with a thrilling debut for Griffin Chao, who made an immediate impact by scoring the opening try just four minutes in.
However, a missed conversion left the Simbas with a 5-0 lead. Kenya maintained the pressure, and by the 10th minute, Jeanson Misoga powered over the line for the team’s second try, with a successful conversion extending Kenya’s lead to 12-0.
However, the tide shifted when Misoga received a yellow card in the 33rd minute, leaving Kenya temporarily a man down. Uganda capitalized quickly, with Pius Ogena diving over from a well-executed scrum to reduce the gap after Kenya's defense showed signs of fatigue.
Before halftime, Uganda’s Innocent Gwokto sliced through Kenya’s defense after a well-orchestrated move from a scrum, putting the Cranes back in front, 14-12. The game remained tightly contested, and Uganda struck again early in the second half, taking a brief 17-14 lead.
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But Kenya’s Brian Wahinya answered with two swift tries, turning the game back in Kenya’s favor at 24-17.
Uganda continued to fight, with debutant Robin Philip crossing the line in the 66th minute. However, a missed conversion kept the Cranes trailing by two points. Kenya then widened the gap when substitute Jone Kubu, making his return to the squad, slotted a crucial penalty to push Kenya ahead 27-22.
As the game neared its end, Uganda closed the gap to 27-25 with another penalty, intensifying the pressure on Kenya in the final moments. Despite Uganda's persistent efforts, Kenya managed to hold on for a slim victory.
The return leg is set for Saturday, November 16, in Kampala, where the Simbas face the challenge of defending their lead.
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