Simbas must get it right on matters of discipline and mental fortitude if they are to prevail again in the return leg of the Elgon Cup in Kampala next weekend.
Simbas skipper George Nyambua believes they are a work in progress despite edging Uganda 27-25 in a closely contested clash at the RFUEA ground over the weekend.
“Our discipline was not good. We conceded 16 penalties which does not augur well for us. Most of the penalties we gave away could have been avoided. We, therefore, must go back to the drawing board this week to be on the right side of the interpretation by the referee,” observed Nyambua On mental fortitude, the Kabras skipper said they must learn to close out games, especially, in the final quarter of the match.
“We had a seven-point lead in the final 10 minutes and we should have built on that to ensure we take back to Uganda a bigger lead. The players and the management know we have work to do ahead of the second leg,” noted Nyambua.
Simbas head coach Jerome Paarwater said the challenge now is to ensure players are up to the speed despite limited training period left.
“I am delighted with the win because we only trained for a week. We are going back to the drawing board to see what we can improve in the shortest time possible,” added Paarwater.
Uganda coach Fred Mudoola lamented his side’s kicking woes that saw them miss four penalties which he believes would have won the game.
“We have to improve our kicking for points. We missed four penalties which if converted would have given victory. It’s always tough playing Kenya here on Ngong Road. I have played here as a player and now as a coach; It’s always tough ground to win.”
Both teams scored four tries each with Brian Wahinya (two), Griffin Chao and Jeanson Misoga (one apiece) on target for Simbas.
Timothy Omela slotted two
conversions while substitute Jone
Kubu drilled home a penalty.
Phillip Odrua scored twice for
Uganda as Pius Ogena and Thomas
Ogwokto landed a try each.
Shakim Ssembusi’ scored a penalty
and conversion.
