Kenya Simbas assistant coach expressed mixed emotions after their commanding 21-5 victory over Uganda Cranes in the second leg of the 2024 Elgon Cup. Despite securing the title with an aggregate score of 48-30, he pointed out areas of concern, particularly unforced errors that could have been costly.
The Simbas had narrowly won the first leg 27-25 in Nairobi, setting up a crucial second-leg showdown in Kampala. Converted tries by Ephraim Oduor, Eugene Sifuna, and rookie Andy Cole Omollo, who earned the man-of-the-match accolade, ensured Kenya’s decisive victory. While the result was a significant triumph, some aspects of the performance did not sit well with the coach.
In his post-match remarks, the coach commended his team for executing the game plan effectively but expressed disappointment with decision-making lapses during the match. He acknowledged that these mistakes prevented the team from closing out the game earlier, particularly in the first half, where they had opportunities to put the contest beyond Uganda’s reach.
The coach highlighted that his team had meticulously studied Uganda’s play in the first leg and identified loopholes to exploit. This preparation paid off, as Uganda did not make significant changes to their strategy, enabling Kenya to exploit their vulnerabilities effectively. The Simbas’ ability to adapt their tactics and find alternative avenues for attack was instrumental in their dominant performance.
However, the coach remained critical of the team’s execution in some areas, citing unforced errors and poor decision-making as key concerns. These mistakes, he explained, underscored the players’ offseason rustiness. He emphasized that while the victory was encouraging, the performance revealed the need for refinement and greater precision as the team progresses through the season.
The Simbas’ back-to-back victories over their East African rivals were a testament to their potential and preparation, but the coach’s critiques serve as a reminder that there is still room for improvement. He acknowledged the team’s effort and resilience but stressed the importance of eliminating avoidable errors to maintain their upward trajectory.
One of the highlights of the second leg was the stellar performance of Andy Cole Omollo, a young talent who shone on the big stage. His efforts, along with those of his teammates, showcased the depth of talent within the squad and offered hope for a promising future. As Kenya looks to solidify its dominance in regional rugby, nurturing such talent will be key to sustaining success.
The focus for the Simbas now shifts to building on their strong start and addressing the challenges highlighted by their coach. With a blend of experienced players and emerging stars, the team has the potential to excel in upcoming competitions. However, refining their gameplay and minimizing errors will be crucial to achieving consistent success.
Looking ahead, the team’s coaching staff will prioritize improving decision-making and execution in critical moments. These adjustments will not only enhance the team’s performance but also ensure that they capitalize on opportunities to dominate matches comprehensively. As the season progresses, the Simbas will aim to translate their potential into sustained excellence on the field.
The Elgon Cup victory marks a significant milestone for the Kenya Simbas, reaffirming their position as a force to be reckoned with in regional rugby. While the win is a reason for celebration, the coach’s constructive criticism underscores the team’s commitment to continuous improvement. By addressing their shortcomings and building on their strengths, the Simbas are well-positioned to achieve greater success in the future.
