Game management and defensive alignment a priority as Simbas face Zims in Africa Cup semi-cum-World Cup qualifier

Kenya Simbas Griffin Chao is tackled by four Ugandan defenders during their World Cup qualifier match in Kampala /HANDOUT  

Kenya Simbas are prioritising game management and defensive alignment ahead of the Africa Cup semi-final-cum-World Cup qualifier against Zimbabwe on Sunday in Kampala. Simbas survived a second-half surge by Uganda to win 32-24 in an entertaining clash to book their spot.

Simbas’ coach Jerome Paarwater said the two areas will have to be addressed in the two training sessions before the clash against the reigning holders.

“I was delighted with the victory and felt relieved. We won the match against a quality Uganda opponent, though with proper game management and defence, we should have been able to see the game through in the final quarter,” noted Paarwater.

The Simbas looked on course to score a huge win against their rivals with 15 minutes to go, leading 29 -10, but the Ugandans struck back.

It was a nervy, tense finish that saw flyhalf Barry Robinson slot home a drop goal to put the game beyond reach for the hosts. The South African tactician said lapses in concentration and poor decision-making hurt them in the final quarter.

“ We had built a good lead, which gave us a good buffer, but we did not play in the right areas and Uganda capitalised on that to make the game very interesting,” he added. Paarwater expects a tough clash against Zimbabwe, who booked their spot in the semis after a 43-8 demolition of Morocco in the first match of the day.

“ We have always had competitive battles against Zimbabwe for the last couple of years, and on Friday, we will do our video review of their strength and weaknesses and see areas which we can exploit,” he said.

Skipper George Nyambua lauded the resilience of the side following the bruising contest. “The boys showed character, especially in the last ten minutes when we lost momentum, and credit to Barry for slotting the drop goal, which enabled us to get over the line,” Nyambua said.

The side will adapt to the intermittent rain and cold conditions being experienced in Uganda. “The weather is almost like Nairobi, and we have adapted well since we arrived a week ago. I believe it will continue into the weekend when we face Zimbabwe,” said Nyambua.

Kabras star winger Griffin Chao scored a brace, with George Nyambua and Barry Young scoring a try each. Young converted one try and kicked two drop goals, as Jones Kubu converted one try. Uganda scored their tries through Aaron Ofoyrwoth, Phillip Wokorach and captain Byron Oketayot. Wokorach added a penalty and two conversions.

In other results, Namibia thrashed Senegal 55-17 while Algeria trounced Cote d'Ivoire 41-6 to proceed to the final four.