Kenya Lionesses kick off Challenger Series with dominant win over Samoa
A crucial tackle from Okulu disrupted Samoa's momentum, allowing Kenya to regain possession through a scrum fed by Judith Okumu.
The Kenya Lionesses contingent led by coach Dennis Mwanja began their Challenger Series campaign on the right foot roaring a commanding 20-5 victory over Samoa whom they are pitted in the same group with (pool D) today March 1, in Cape Town, South Africa.
Captain Grace Okulu was the standout performer, running in a sensational hat-trick to propel Kenya to a confident start.
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The match started with Okulu kicking off for Kenya, but early pressure from Samoa kept the Lionesses on the back foot.
However, a crucial tackle from Okulu disrupted Samoa's momentum, allowing Kenya to regain possession through a scrum fed by Judith Okumu.
Despite a missed pass from Sharon Auma, the Lionesses forced a turnover, creating an opening for Okulu to sprint down the left wing and touch down for the first try. The conversion attempt fell short, but Kenya took an early 5-0 lead.
Samoa struggled to maintain possession against Kenya's high-intensity defence.
Just before halftime, the Lionesses capitalised on a poorly executed lineout from Samoa.
A series of quick passes found Okulu in space, and she crossed the whitewash again to double Kenya's lead. The teams headed into the break with the Lionesses leading 10-0.
Samoa found a breakthrough early in the second half, punishing Kenya for holding onto the ball too long. However, the Lionesses quickly responded, with Naomi Amuguni finishing off a well-worked move to restore their 10-point cushion at 15-5.
Okulu then put the game beyond doubt with her third try of the match, slicing through Samoa's defence with ease to seal the 20-5 victory. Despite missed conversions, Kenya's attacking dominance and defensive discipline ensured a perfect start to their campaign.
With this strong opening performance, the Lionesses have set the tone for their Challenger Series journey, sending a clear message to their next-in-line opponents this afternoon, Poland.
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