Elgon Cup 2019, First Leg
Women
Kenya Lionesses 44-13 Uganda Lady Rugby Cranes
Men
Kenya Simbas 13-16 Uganda Rugby Cranes
Uganda Rugby Cranes finally managed to beat rivals Kenya Simbas in the Elgon Cup after six years. A 13-16 win on Saturday at the Momboleo Stadium in Kisumu, Kenya was Uganda’s their first win against Kenya since the 16-17 triumph during the Elgon Cup first round in June 2013 during the Nairobi clash. Adrian Kasito inspired Uganda with an unconverted try before Aaron Aaron Ofoyrwoth scored a penalty to give Uganda 0-8 lead. Ofoyrwoth scored a second penalty before Kenya’s Dominic Culson scored a drop kick to make it 3-11 by the end of first stanza. On return, Center Pius Ogena was quick to cross the white wash but Ofoyrwoth failed to utilize the extras for Uganda. Kenya continued with a fight back with Griffin Musila scoring first try and his KCB mate Jeff Okwach also landing a try to make it 13-16. The conversions were however not utilized hence a 13-16 win for Uganda to leave Kisumu victorious on an evening that also saw Uganda Cranes beat Democratic Republic of Uganda (DRC) 2-0 in the AFCON for Uganda’s first win at the continental showpiece since 1978. In the Women affair, Kenya beat Uganda 44-13. Grace Adhiambo, captain Phila Olando(3), Celestine Masinde, Janet Okello, Sophia Ayietta and Stella Wafula scored eight tries for Kenya with only two converted. Charlotte Mudoola had a try on a losing end. The Elgon Cup return leg will be played on Saturday, July 13 at Kyadondo Rugby Club, Kampala. The men’s fixture will double as Victoria Cup encounter while the Women are using the competition as a build up for the Africa 15s Women Cup set for August in South Africa –where the winner will qualify for 2021 Women’s Rugby World Cup.
