The Kenya Lionesses secured their first win in the 2021 Women’s Rugby World Cup Qualifiers after beating Madagscar 35-5 in the 2:00pm kick off match.
Madagascar drew first blood half way into the first half with the conversion drifting wide. Three minutes later, the Lionesses who seemed to take a bit too long to settle in this encounter leveled up the scores to 5 a piece as Celestine Masinde crossed over the whitewash. Grace Adhiambo’s conversion was short.
While deep in the opponent’s 22, the Lionesses forwards ball carrying skills could be seen as they slowly made their way to the try line. Scrumhalf Irene Atieno sent the ball to the backs whose interplay resulted in a gap opening up and Janet Okello cutting through it to land her side’s second try. The conversion again drifting wide. Philadelphia Olando extended her Pride’s lead to 17-5 at the stroke of half time as she landed a center post try with Irene Atieno adding the extras.
The second half, the Lionesses added an extra 18 points through the Impala Saracens’ duo of Diana Awino and Christabel Lindo who landed a try each. The spectators were served with Janet Okello’s signature run and rounding of her defenders as she made her way to the in goal area. She played in Celestine Masinde who landed her brace and the last of the Lionesses tries, the conversion sailed wide. Christabel’s and Masinde’s second try sandwiched a Janet Owino’s penalty kick that was a result of Madagascar’s infringement.
The Lionesses now prepare for their second match against Uganda Lady Cranes on Tuesday 13th August at 2:00pm. The tournament matches are being aired live here.
Photo: Rugby Africa
