Valiant Chipu fall short against Uruguay in World Rugby U20 Trophy opener

The Kenya U20 rugby team, Chipu, faced a tough challenge in their opening match of the World Rugby U20 Trophy against Uruguay played at the Edinburgh Stadium in Scotland on Tuesday. Despite a valiant effort, Chipu fell short in a 24-7 defeat.

The first half belonged entirely to Uruguay. Early dominance saw them capitalize on a missed Kenyan field kick, leading to the opening try in the 10th minute. Uruguay continued to pile on the pressure, adding a penalty kick shortly after to extend their lead to 8-0.

Chipu threatened on several occasions but were unable to convert. A promising attacking sequence ended with an Uruguayan turnover, snuffing out any hopes of scoring. 

World Rugby U20 Trophy: Chipu battle Uruguay in opening fixture

The Uruguayan defense proved to be a brick wall, repeatedly shutting down Kenyan advances. Errors such as missed passes further hampered Chipu's progress.

Uruguay capitalized on Kenya's struggles just before the half-time whistle. They secured a scrum deep in Kenyan territory and used their powerful forwards to drive over the line for another try. The score remained 15-0 at halftime.

The second half saw a brief resurgence from Chipu. They earned a penalty but were unable to convert. 

However, their persistence paid off minutes later when Michael Wamalwa crossed the try line after a series of quick passes. James Olela successfully slotted the conversion, putting Chipu on the scoreboard at 15-7.

Unfortunately, that was all Chipu could muster. Uruguay responded with a clinical try of their own, extending their lead to 21-7. 

Despite their best efforts, Chipu could not find another breakthrough, ultimately falling short in their opening match.

Jawichre announces Chipu squad for Uruguay encounter

This match serves as a learning experience for the young Kenyan team. While the scoreline does not reflect their fighting spirit, they will need to address their handling errors and improve their finishing if they want to advance further in the competition.

They will be looking to bounce back when they face the Netherlands on Sunday, July 7, at 9:45 pm (EAT) in their second match. Their final pool match will be against the USA on Friday, July 12, 2024.

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Teams will play in a round-robin format during the group stage to determine the final pool rankings. 

The final rankings will determine the matchups: the pool toppers will compete in the final, runners-up will face off in the bronze final, third-placed teams will battle for fifth place, and the bottom-placed teams will compete for seventh place.

CHIPU SQUAD:

Darrel Oluoch, Ian Nyandusi, Bramwel Mate, Brian Shile, Geylord Ngasi, Hafidh Mohammed, Eugene Etali, Cleyn Okumbi, Andycole Omolo, Eddy Otieno, Iddo Kuta, Wycliffe Ogutu, Nathan Tsindoli, Willy Tino, Edmond Omondi, Patrick Wainaina, Benedict Muiruri, Faran Juma, Philip Okeyo, Alvin Khavoli, Brian Kiptoo, Dennis Ndayala, Kipchirchir Bett, Elvis Otete, Eugene Ojiambo, Jackson Siketi, Michael Wamalwa, James Olela

NON-TRAVELLING RESERVES:

Jeffrey Namiti, John Asega, Jeff Maina, Rogers Omanyi

MANAGEMENT:

Simon Jawichre (Head Coach), Qondani Katywa (Assistant Coach), Kenny Andola (Assistant Coach), Williams Motto (Strength & Conditioning Coach), Philip Wamae (Team Manager), Wacera Githua (Assistant Team Manager), Aysha Omar (Team Doctor), Samuel Ochieng