Elgon Cup: Kenya Simbas ready to rectify mistakes as battle shifts to Kampala

Robin Odrua (left) of Uganda Cranes tackles Alfred Orege of Kenya Simbas in their 2024 Elgon Cup match last week. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]

The Kenya Simbas are gearing up to rectify errors from their previous encounter as they prepare to face Uganda Rugby Cranes in the return leg of the Elgon Cup at KingsPark, Bweyogerere, on Saturday.

The Simbas narrowly clinched a 27-25 win at Nairobi's RFUEA Grounds last weekend, but the team is keen on making adjustments to secure a more commanding win in Kampala.

In their first match, the Simbas struggled with maintaining possession in open play, gave away penalties too easily, and heavily relied on forward play, limiting their backs' impact.

Simbas coach Jerome Paarwater acknowledged these challenges, saying they need to have a more balanced approach for the rematch.

"To stay on top against Uganda, we need to play smarter, keep our discipline, and capitalise on the backs' potential. This will give us the edge to maintain our dominance in East African rugby," he said.

Following the first leg, the team went into a three-day recovery and restructuring session in Kakamega, focusing on building a cohesive strategy that mitigates their earlier mistakes.

With renewed energy and focus, the team believes they are now better positioned to handle the Cranes on their home turf.

Paarwater named a 25-man squad for the Kampala showdown, with just one notable change.

Ernest Obat Kuke will miss the match due to school commitments, and will be replaced by Hillary Mwanjilwa from Kabras Sugar RFC.

Also, the Simbas have added two players, Teddy Akala and Beldad Ogeta, who were not part of the lineup in Nairobi, providing more options and depth for the rematch. The squad reflects a strong balance of experience and fresh talent, with key players from Kabras Sugar RFC and KCB RC contributing both strength and skill.

In the forward pack, Ephraim Oduor, Edward Mwaura, and Eugene Sifuna are set to provide the much-needed physicality, while Griffin Musila and Wilhite Mususi offer support in the scrum.

The addition of experienced backs like Brian Wahinya and Jone Kubu will enhance the team's ability to transition fluidly from defense to attack, an area Paarwater is keen to optimise.

The inclusion of Griffin Chao and George Nyambua, both known for their tactical awareness and defensive prowess, aims to plug any gaps exposed in the first leg.

The Simbas' squad depth has been bolstered by versatile players like Alfred Orege and Tyson Maina, providing Paarwater flexibility in positioning and tactics.