By Zim Sport Live Writer
Zimbabwe’s Junior Sables missed out on a place in the Rugby Africa Under-20 Barthes Trophy final after losing 35-23 to Kenya in Kampala on Friday.
The defeat ended Zimbabwe’s hopes of reclaiming the continental title and qualifying for the World Rugby Junior Trophy.
Kenya will face defending champions Namibia in Tuesday’s final, with both nations seeking a record fourth Barthes Trophy title.
Kenya established control in the first half, opening up a 23-6 lead through tries by Brian Kiptanui and Rayvon Amunga, while full-back Faran Juma added the extras and penalties. Zimbabwe’s only first-half points came from two Connor Lovatt penalties.
Zimbabwe responded after the break when number eight Vimbiso Kasvosve crossed from a driving maul to cut the deficit, but Kenya restored their advantage with further tries from Michael Andale, Jibril Lugonzo and Dennis Livoi.
Centre Michael Chimedza scored a late consolation try for Zimbabwe with the final play of the match.
Earlier, defending champions Namibia booked their place in the final with an 11-6 victory over Tunisia.
Tunisia led 6-0 at half-time through two Mohamed Afli penalties before Namibia turned the match around in the second half.
Substitute Nzola Nkunku scored the game’s only try, while Mc-Rein Van Wyk added a penalty and a drop goal to send the Junior Welwitschias into another final.
Zimbabwe will now face Tunisia in the third-place playoff, while Kenya and Namibia meet in the championship match on Tuesday.