Mixed results for Kenya 15s in Africa and Elgon cups

It was a mixed Saturday for Kenya as the national rugby 15s side lost away to Zimbabwe in their 2015 Africa Cup opener while their A side edged neighbour Uganda in the annual Elgon Cup first leg in Nairobi.

In Harare, the Kenyans who were seeking revenge against the side that ended their 2015 Rugby World Cup dream, were trailing 14-0 before storming back to tie the cores at 17-17 at half time.

Zimbabwe went 20-23 up after the breather before a late try sealed the win with continental champions Namibia beating Tunisia, Kenya's next opponents on June 28, by 22-14.

In Nairobi, Charles Omondi notched two tries to inspire Kenya A to a narrow 20-17 over Uganda, with their female counterparts sharing a 5-5 draw to leave both ties finely poised for the second legs in Kampala.

Kenya men's head coach Mitch Ochola said in exuding confidence that his men's side will retain the trophy contested between the East African neighbours.

"A lot to work on in terms of striking, because we missed 12 points off the post. I know it's going to be a tough encounter in Kampala because they want to win, but our objective remains on retaining the Cup," said Ochola.

"We have witnessed a gruelling battle between the two teams as always, very intense and physical game. I congratulate Kenya for the win; they had a very good structure. We need to win by four points to reclaim the Elgon Cup and hopefully we will work on our structure and be ready," said Uganda captain Brian Odong.

Kenya's Philadelphia Olando was voted Woman of The Match while countryman Cyprian Kuto was voted Man of The Match.

The return legs will be played in Kampala on Saturday June 20. Endi