Sydney Gongonyo centre (URU MEDIA)
The Uganda Rugby Cranes were dealt a devastating defeat by the Kenyan Simbas in the second leg of the 2024 Elgon Cup, losing 5-21 at home in what is being described as their worst performance in over a decade. This loss comes on the back of a narrow 27-25 defeat in the first round in Nairobi, handing Kenya the series 2-0. The Simbas now retain the Elgon Cup for the 11th time, while Uganda, who have only claimed the title three times, were left to reflect on a performance that fell far below expectations.
Kenya Opens the Floodgates Early
The match got off to a flying start for Kenya, with Ephraim Oduor opening the scoring just three minutes into the game. Oduor’s try, following an excellent burst through Uganda’s defense, set the tone for the match. Timothy Okwemba made no mistake with the conversion, putting the Simbas 7-0 ahead.
Uganda struggled to find their rhythm early on, with a series of unforced errors hindering their efforts. The Cranes’ handling and discipline were problematic from the start, with knock-ons and poor decision-making costing them crucial possession.
Kenya continued to apply pressure, and in the 14th minute, Eugene Sifuna extended the Simbas’ lead. Sifuna received a well-timed pass from Brian Wahinya and exploited the space in Uganda’s 22-meter area to cross for a try. Okwemba was again successful with the conversion, making it 14-0, and the Cranes were already under heavy pressure.
Uganda’s Struggles in Key Areas
Uganda’s performance was marred by an inability to execute the basics, especially at the line-out. Poor set pieces allowed Kenya to dominate in key moments, and the Cranes failed to regain any momentum. The Ugandan pack was constantly under pressure, and their scrum, in particular, struggled to exit cleanly, giving Kenya the upper hand.
The first half was a night of missed opportunities for the Cranes. A few moments of promise came when Innocent Gotwo pounced on a lost Kenyan possession deep in Simbas’ territory, but his attack was halted by a dangerous high tackle from Kenyan forward Alfred Orege. Orege was shown a yellow card for the reckless challenge, giving Uganda a brief numerical advantage. However, the Cranes were unable to capitalize, wasting possession with uncoordinated phases that failed to put any meaningful pressure on the Kenyan defense.
Further frustration for the Cranes came when center Sembuzi fumbled the ball just 10 yards from the Kenyan try line, handing the Simbas back possession. This critical error prevented Uganda from cutting into the deficit and allowed Kenya to maintain control.
Sifuna Shines as Kenya Extends Their Lead
Kenya’s clinical play continued into the second half. The introduction of John Kwubo in the second period further stabilized the Simbas’ performance, adding both physicality and structure to their attack. With Uganda unable to respond, the Simbas cemented their lead with further tries, including a third try that sealed their 21-0 advantage by the 60th minute. Okwemba’s consistent kicking kept the scoreboard ticking over, as the Cranes struggled to find any answers.
Uganda’s Late Consolation
As the clock ticked down and the game seemed all but lost, Uganda finally managed to break their scoring drought in the 80th minute. A slick move from the backline, involving quick passing and sharp running, allowed Ian Munyani to break free and link up with Sydney Gonyonyo, who crossed the line for Uganda’s only try of the match. Munyani’s quick thinking and crisp distribution in the backline was a rare moment of brilliance for the Cranes, but it came far too late to impact the result.
Kenya’s defense held firm, and despite the late score, Uganda could not mount a comeback. The Simbas’ 21-point lead remained intact, and they walked away with a deserved victory, having capitalized on every mistake made by the Cranes.
A Humbling Defeat for Uganda
The loss to Kenya is a tough blow for the Rugby Cranes, who were hoping to recover from their narrow defeat in Nairobi and take the series win at home. Instead, they delivered a disjointed performance that exposed weaknesses in almost every area of their game. From the line-out to the scrum, and from individual errors to lack of cohesion in attack, the Cranes were second best throughout the match.
Kenya, on the other hand, demonstrated why they are a formidable force in African rugby. The Simbas’ physical dominance, tactical discipline, and clinical finishing ensured that they never let Uganda into the game. Brian Wanyiga’s work in the loose and the impact of players like Sifuna, who was named man of the match for his all-around performance, further underscored Kenya’s superior execution.
Looking Ahead
For Uganda, this loss will serve as a wake-up call. The Cranes will need to address their technical flaws and improve their discipline in order to be competitive in future international fixtures. With the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations looming, the Cranes must regroup, learn from this humbling defeat, and focus on improving their core skills ahead of more challenging matches.
For Kenya, the victory further cements their dominance in the East African rugby rivalry. The Simbas’ fourth consecutive Elgon Cup title is a testament to their depth and strength, and they will be buoyed by their performance as they look ahead to the upcoming Rugby Africa Gold Cup and World Cup qualifiers.
Despite the defeat, the Cranes remain a team with talent and potential. However, they will need to correct their errors and build on their positives if they are to challenge for major honors in African rugby in the near future.
