Lady Rugby Cranes face uphill task after heavy loss to Kenya
The Ugandan side started their campaign with a humiliating 43-10 loss to hosts Kenya at the Rugby Football Union of East Africa in Nairobi.
Lady Rugby Cranes player Beth Asaba with the ball during final training at Kampala Club, Lugogo. PHOTO: Johnson Were
Women Rugby Africa Cup results
Kenya 43 Uganda 10
South Africa 64 Madagascar 5
Lady Rugby Cranes coach Muhammad Athio has a lot of work to do ahead of his team's second match against South Africa at the women's Rugby Africa tournament in Nairobi on Wednesday.
The Ugandan side started their campaign with a humiliating 43-10 loss to hosts Kenya at the Rugby Football Union of East Africa in Nairobi. Uganda conceded seven tries, a clear sign that improvements are needed before facing pre-tournament favourites South Africa, who beat Madagascar 64-5.
The defeat has damaged Uganda's chances of qualifying for the World Rugby performance division two competitions.
The Lady Rugby Cranes started the game well but lacked the physical strength to counter a well-drilled and experienced Kenyan side.
Cabrine Kirabo scored Uganda's only try, while Bushira Namutebi added a conversion and a penalty to give Uganda their ten points. Kenya's tries came from Maureen Murith, Nelly Chikombe, Stell Wafula, Faith Livol, Noame Muhanji, and Freshia Oduor.
Team captain Angella Nanyonjo admitted defeat but promised a stronger performance against South Africa.
"It was a tough contest. The team gave it their best, but the result went the other way. We are going back to the drawing board and we look forward to the next match," Nanyonjo said.