Kenya Simbas fall short in Limpopo but show grit ahead of Africa Cup

Despite the loss, the Simbas displayed commendable attacking flair and resilience, offering a morale boost as they prepare for the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup in Uganda.

The Simbas started brightly, with Brian Juma crossing the whitewash early, and Brian Wahinya adding the conversion for a 7-0 lead.

The hosts responded off a maul to level the scores but Kenya regained control with a converted try under the posts, but Limpopo hit back again, making it 14-14.

John Okoth restored Simbas' lead before Musonye added another try just before halftime, Wahinya converting both to take Simbas 28-21 ahead.

However, Limpopo fought back in the second half with two converted tries to lead 35-28.

Kenya responded with a converted try in the corner to level at 35-35, but the Blue Bulls snatched a late intercept try under the posts to seal a 42-35 win.

One area of concern remains Kenya’s ruck management, with several poor offloads made too far from the breakdown, despite fundamental coaching to keep plays tight.

This was the final test in a challenging South African tour, where the Simbas had previously drawn 17-17 with the SWD Eagles and suffered losses to the South Africa U20 team and Sanlam Boland.

Coach Jerome Paarwater will take heart in the team's improved finishing and fighting spirit.

With the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup also serving as the first step in qualifying for the 2027 Men's Rugby World Cup in Australia, the performance reminds fans and critics alike of the raw potential and grit within Kenya’s 15s squad, with the hope that they will qualify for the 2027 edition.