Olago rallies behind Chipu ahead of Hong Kong clash

Kenya U20 men’s team head coach Curtis Olago believes his side still has some fight left in them as they look to wrap up the 2023 World Rugby U20 Trophy edition on a high.

Chipu began their promotion quest with a 34-25 defeat to Samoa on the opening day of the tournament, and after giving a big fight in the first half, ultimately collapsed in the second period, falling 48-18 to Spain in their second match.

Ahead of their last Pool B fixture against Hong Kong China on Tuesday, Olago said: “We keep on fighting, we keep the faith and don’t relent. Every match we play is part of our learning curve. The more the boys are exposed, the more they improve.”

Should Kenya win, they will finish third in their pool, and will give them a chance to finish higher overall, as they will be in contention for fifth place in a playoff match-up set for Saturday 29 July.

In the case they don’t come out as victors on Tuesday, then they will be forced to play in a seventh place playoff game.

At the same time, the experienced head coach has made two changes to the starting lineup.

The first change will see Alvin Mwamburi slotting into the midfield in place of the injured Felix Chacha, with Eddy Wambugu returning to the match day squad after missing out on Thursday’s action.

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In addition, there will be two positional changes; Faran Juma reverting to fullback as James Olela starts on the wing, relegating Raphael Wanga to the bench.

The duo of Brian Makaya and James Tsinalo could also make their first appearances of the tournament after being named in the match day 23.

The game kicks off at 1200 EAT.

SQUAD: Faran Juma, Victor Odhiambo, Alvin Mwamburi, Mike Wamalwa (captain), James Olela, Eddy Wambugu, Patrick Wainaina, Geylord Ngasi, George Otieno, Mike Oduor, Edmund Omondi, Andy Cole Omolo, Laban Kipsang, Vincent Omondi, Jacktone Omondi.

REPLACEMENTS: Jeremy Odhiambo, Brian Makaya, Raymond Chacha, Stanslous Shikoli, James Tsinalo, Brian Mwendwa, Spencer Davies, Raphael Wanga.