Lionesses maul Uganda to lay marker for Africa Women’s Cup

 Kenya’s women’s sevens rugby team, the Lionesses, began their quest for the Africa Women’s Cup in flying fashion, thrashing neighbours Uganda 43-10 in a charged contest at the RFUEA Grounds on Saturday afternoon.

Moreen Muritu put Kenya ahead with the opening try before Sinaida Nyachio successfully converted for a 7-0 lead. Uganda’s Lady Cranes responded through Cabrine Kirabo, with Bushira Namutebi adding the conversion to level the scores.

However, the resilient Kenyans quickly regained control, with Stella Wafula crossing the whitewash before Freshia Oduor and Tracy Montex also added their names to the scoresheet as the Lionesses cruised to a comfortable victory.

Kenya’s physical dominance and sharp attacking phases proved too much for Uganda, with the Lionesses controlling both territory and tempo from start to finish. The result gives Kenya a strong start to the tournament as they now shift focus to Wednesday’s clash against Madagascar, where they will be aiming to maintain their winning momentum on home soil.

In the opening match of the tournament, South Africa’s Springbok Women also laid down an early marker, running in 10 tries to overpower Madagascar 64-5 in a dominant display that highlighted their attacking variety and clinical finishing.