Positive start for Kenya in 2021 Rugby Africa Barthes Cup

The 2021 Rugby Africa Barthes Cup action between Kenya U20 and Senegal U20. [Courtesy-KRU]

The Kenya National Under-20 Rugby team kickstarted their Rugby Africa Barthes Cup campaign on a high note after thrashing Senegal 50-3 in the opening match played at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi.

The Kenya U20, also known as ‘Chipu’, scored eight tries to get their title defense on track inspired by Strathmore Leos star Andrew Matoka.

Matoka, the hero of the day in 2019 when Kenya edged out Namibia, bagged 15 points to lead the hosts to a winning start in Nairobi.

Matoka scored a try, two penalties and two conversions including the opening eight points of the match.

Tyson Juma added a brace as Reinhard Mwalati, Anderson Oduor, Ibrahim Ayodi and William Opaka grabbed a try each.

Senegal only managed a penalty goal through their captain Ameth Sarr that saw them register a heavy defeat in their opening match.

No fans were allowed at the venue due to the coronavirus pandemic. [Courtesy-KRU]

No fans were allowed at the venue due to the coronavirus pandemic. Additionally, winning the Barthes Trophy will also serve off as a qualifier for the World U20 contest.

Kenya defeated Namibia 21-18 in 2019 to win the last edition of the Barthes Trophy at KCB Sports Club in Ruaraka.

Kenya U20 which is coached by KCB Rugby Club tactician Curtis Olago will face Madagascar next on Tuesday, June 29.

Kenya U20: 1.Wilhite Mususi, 2.Maxwell Atera, 3. Khaidar Mohammed, 4. Andrew Wangila, 5. Ibrahim Ayodi, 6. Reinhard Ngaira, 7. Collins Indeche, 8, John Baraka, 9. Cornelius Mukoro, 10, Arnold Onzere, 11. Andrew Matoka, 12. Felix Chacha, 13. Richel Mulati, 14. William Opaka, 15. Anderson Odour