Odera hails Simbas’ mentality in win over Brazil

Kenya Simbas coach Paul Odera has hailed the mentality of his charges after beating Brazil in the bronze medal match of the Quadrangular tournament in Stellenbosch, South Africa on Saturday.

Odera saluted the never-say-die spirit of his charges in the topsy-turvy encounter which saw Kenya win 36-30 in sweltering heat.

“I’m encouraged by the performance of the team after the defeat to Namibia last week we picked ourselves and played with our hearts and won,” added Odera.

This was Kenya’s third win against the South Americans. Kenya won 27-16 at the Emirates Four Nations tournament in Dubai in 2011 and 18-17 in a 2016 Test match.

Odera said the side ticked a few boxes especially the lineout, defensive alignment and attack.

“In the three facets of play, we were good to put them under pressure and shift the point of attack and this bodes well with our aspirations as we head for next year’s World Cup qualifiers in France,” said Odera.

Odera, who had stints as Kenya under 20 coach and Strathmore Leos, said they remain on track to qualify for the Rugby World Cup.

“I’m still confident we can qualify for the World Cup. Our players have been exposed to a high level of elite rugby and we just need to improve and tweak in certain areas to become the complete package,” he added.

The Simbas tries were scored by Jone Kubu, John Okoth, Vincent Onyala and Samuel Asati with Kubu adding two conversions and two penalties. Andrew Matoka added one conversion as Kenya led 22-16 at the interval.

Kubu was later named player of the series for his swashbuckling displays in the two matches. Simbas face Cheetahs in the final match of the tour on Thursday.

Elsewhere, Shamas beat Kabarak University 39-8 to be crowned KRU Nationwide league champions at the RFUEA Ground on Saturday.

Shamas raced into a 27-0 lead at the interval, landing five tries through Timothy Lugalia, Hamisi Namisi, Jullian Lan, Nielsen Jumba and Smith Ouma with Namisi drilling home a conversion.

Emmanuel Mumoki scored the consolation goal for the varsity side with Aden Noor scoring a late penalty.