Kenya’s U20 national team, Chipu, ended their campaign in the World Rugby U20 Trophy with a 30-17 defeat to the USA in their final pool match at Hive Stadium in Scotland on Friday. Despite the loss, Chipu showcased commendable resilience compared to their previous matches.
The young Kenyan side entered the match after a 25-7 defeat to Uruguay and a heavy 51-3 loss to the Netherlands. This fixture marked the first time the two teams met at the U20 Trophy since the 2009 edition, where Chipu emerged victorious with a narrow 33-32 win.
The match began with a strong showing from the USA, who quickly established a 5-0 lead with a converted try from the corner post. A penalty kick soon after extended their advantage to 8-0.
Chipu, undeterred, responded with intense pressure, which culminated in a penalty kick by James Olela after a USA infringement within their five-meter line. The first half concluded with the USA leading 8-3.
The second half saw the USA extend their lead further with a penalty kick, making it 11-3. They capitalized on a Chipu holding penalty with another converted try, pushing the score to 18-3. Another converted try by the USA seemed to put the game out of reach at 23-3.
However, Chipu refused to give up. Elvis Otete ignited a spirited comeback with a try, which Philip Okeyo successfully converted, bringing the score to 23-10. The Kenyan team’s fighting spirit was further exemplified when Daniel Kipchirchir added another converted try, narrowing the gap to 23-17.
Despite their valiant efforts, Chipu fell short as the USA sealed the victory with a converted try shortly before the final whistle, ending the match at 30-17.
The result saw the USA advance to the final of the Junior Trophy, having dominated their previous matches with a 44-33 win over the Netherlands and a 32-15 victory against Uruguay.
They are now just one win away from securing a return to the World Rugby U20 Championship for the first time since 2013.
Kenya’s Chipu, though unable to secure a win in this tournament, showed significant improvement and determination, setting a foundation for future successes in international rugby.
The result saw the USA advance to the final of the Junior Trophy, having dominated their previous matches with a 44-33 win over the Netherlands and a 32-15 victory against Uruguay.
They are now just one win away from securing a return to the World Rugby U20 Championship for the first time since 2013.
Kenya’s Chipu, though unable to secure a win in this tournament, showed significant improvement and determination, setting a foundation for future successes in international rugby
Chipu squad for USA Challenge
1. Wycliffe Ogutu 2. Bramwel Anekea 3. Darrell Oluoch 4. Eugine Etale 5. Clein Okumbi 6. Edmond Omondi 7. Andycole Omolo 8. Iddo Kuta 9. Patrick Wainaina
10. Philip Okeyo 11. Samuel Otete 12. Michael Wamalwa 13. James Olela 14. Alvin Khavoli 15. Jackson Siketa 16. Brian Shile 17. Geylord Ngasi 18. Ian Nyandusi 19. Eddy Otieno 20. Nathan Tsindoli 21. Benadict Muiruri 22. Daniel Bett 23. Eugene Ojiambo
Photo: X
