Kenya Lionesses produced a commanding performance to defeat Uganda Lady Cranes in an entertaining East African derby during the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Performance Division clash at RFUEA Grounds.
After a balanced opening spell, the Lionesses gradually took control and delivered an explosive attacking display that left the visitors struggling to keep pace.
Kenya struck first through Moreen Muritu after a brilliant break from speedster Janet Okello, who sliced through the Ugandan defence before setting up the opening try under the posts. Sinaida Mokaya added the conversion to hand the hosts an early advantage.
Uganda briefly responded with a converted try to level matters, but the Lionesses quickly regained momentum with another unconverted try before Freshia Oduor showcased her pace and finishing ability to extend Kenya’s lead to 17-7.
The visitors had an opportunity to narrow the gap after winning a penalty, but failed to convert the chance. Kenya capitalised immediately as debutant Tracy Montex crossed over for another try following excellent build-up play involving Okello once again.
Although Uganda managed to add three points before halftime, the Lionesses headed into the break firmly in control with a comfortable lead.
Kenya maintained the intensity after the restart, with Faith Livoi bulldozing her way over the line for another try before Mokaya successfully converted to stretch the advantage further.
The forwards also played a major role in the second-half dominance, overpowering Uganda through a well-executed rolling maul that pushed Kenya beyond the 30-point mark.
Despite Mokaya narrowly missing a penalty attempt after the ball bounced off the posts, the Lionesses quickly regained possession and continued piling pressure on the visitors.
Oduor later grabbed her second try of the afternoon before Mokaya added the extras to cap off an impressive team performance.
The victory gives Kenya a strong start to their Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Performance Division campaign ahead of their next fixture scheduled for Wednesday.
