Kenya Simbas maul UAE in test match

The hosts began with intensity and urgency, frequently breaching UAE’s 22-metre territory. However, their inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, coupled with a strong defensive display from the visitors, saw them trail early on. UAE made the most of their first real chance, touching down for the opening try, and added another just before halftime to carry a 14-0 lead into the break.

Head coach Jerome Paarwater’s halftime talk seemed to awaken the Simbas, who came out roaring in the second half. Their efforts were rewarded when Bethel Anami scored under the posts, with Eric Cantona converting to reduce the deficit to 7-14.

UAE, however, quickly responded with a center-post try to reestablish a 14-point cushion. But Kenya hit back through a fluid move initiated by Menengai Oilers pair Destrious Ifedha and Samwel Ovwamu, who combined to set up Cantona for his second try. The fullback converted to bring the scores to 14-21.

A UAE penalty briefly stretched the lead to 24-14, but the tide had already begun turning.

Elkans Musonye muscled over from a rolling maul and Timothy Omela’s conversion made it 21-24. Moments later, Ibrahim Ayoo powered through to give Kenya the lead for the first time, turning the momentum firmly in their favor at 26-24.

A pivotal moment came when the Simbas were awarded a penalty try following relentless pressure, as UAE were reduced to 14 men. The score now read 33-24 and the Simbas weren’t done yet.

Griffin Chao lit up the pitch with an electric solo run to score under the posts, with Omela again accurate from the tee. AndyCole Omolo followed up with another try to make it 47-24, before Samwel Alsatian’s dazzling footwork created a simple finish for Bryson Adaka. Omela’s final conversion sealed the emphatic 54-24 victory.

It was a statement win for the Simbas, who showed composure, depth, and attacking brilliance in the second half a promising sign as they gear up for more competitive action on the international stage.