Kenya Simbas will be targeting to improve maul defence and kickoff reception for the final bronze medal match against Brazil in the Quadrangular tournament Stellenbosch on Saturday.
Speaking on Wednesday, head coach Paul Odera said they have to react quickly while defending the maul, a facet of play that powerhouses Namibia utilised in their match last weekend, which they won 60-24.
“We have to react quicker in defending the maul. The Namibians exposed us and scored three tries from that and we must be aware of the same threat when we play Brazil," said Odera.
The former Kenya Under 20 and Strathmore Leos coach said the Simbas have to address the kickoff reception and kick-chase must be better in the game against Brazil.
"We easily gave away possession against Namibia at the restarts. The only way to build possession is by holding onto the ball for long periods and applying pressure. We did do that, especially in the second half” added Odera
Odera was, however, pleased with the performance from the boys in the first half.
"We tested Namibia accordingly in the opening 40 minutes. I loved the mix of our play by our forwards and backs and it shows the potential we have as a team,” said Odera.
Odera is expecting a physical onslaught from the South Americans.
In 2016 a clash between the two sides ended 18-17 in favour of the Kenyans.
"The Brazilians are big and strong and love contact. We watched them play Zimbabwe in the opening match so we know what's coming and we have to be prepared for it,” he added.
The match will be key to improving the Simbas rankings with Kenya currently placed 35th in the world and fourth on the continent.
Elsewhere Kenya Cup side Nakuru RFC have signed nine new players ahead of the 2020/21 season.
Centre Emman Okwako and backrower Rodgers Audi have joined the side from town rivals Menengai Oilers alongside Leon Nyang’ who joins from Njoro-based Egerton Wasps.
Forwards Robert Awich and Bradford Khalumi, who featured for Western Bulls in the 2019/20 Kenya Cup campaign have also joined Wanyore’s camp.
Former Kenya Under 20 player John Ochar from Homeboyz, Emmanuel Wabwile from Bungoma High and Wycliffe Odhiambo are also part of the new faces at the club.
Nakuru RFC head coach Felix Oloo confirmed the signings and feels they are good additions to the team.
