Lead image for Kenya Chipu edge Zimbabwe to book Barthes Cup final.
Kenya Under-20 rugby team, Chipu, produced a strong performance to defeat Zimbabwe 35-23 and secure a place in the Rugby Africa Barthes Trophy final at Wankulukuku Stadium yesterday.
The victory keeps Kenya's hopesof lifting the continental title alive after a match that saw Chipu dominate the first half before withstanding a spirited fightback from Zimbabwe in the second period.
Kenya settled quickly and took an early lead through the boot of Kenya Harlequin fly-half Faran Juma, who slotted over a penalty. Zimbabwe responded with a penalty of their own, but Juma calmly restored Kenya's advantage with another successful kick.
Chipu then began to stamp their authority on the contest with an exciting attacking move.
Kabras Sugar youngster Jackson Siketi chipped the ball over the Zimbabwe defence, and the bounce favoured Kenya with Brian Kiptoo reacting fastest, gathering the loose ball and diving over for the opening try to hand Kenya an 11-3 lead.
The East African heavyweights continued to pile pressure on their opponents and soon crossed for a second try.
A break inside the Zimbabwe 22 opened space before quick passing released Rayvone Ambale, who stepped inside the defence and sprinted over the line.