Elgon Tank is full

By Johnson Were & D. Mazune

England Counties East Africa Tour

Today in Nairobi Elgon Warriors v England Counties Smarting from last weekend’s 39-5 defeat in Kampala, the Elgon Warriors have vowed to deny the England Counties a hat trick of victories on their rugby tour of East Africa.

In the true spirit of a warrior, the hosts who embarked training immediately on arrival in Nairobi on Monday, have promised to up their game tomorrow.

Last week, the visitors coasted to a 66-13 over Barbarians, a Uganda select side before winding up the week with and 39-5 victory against the Elgon Warriors (Uganda and Kenya) at Kyaddondo.

The full Tank Assistant Warriors coach Michael ‘Tank’ Otieno is optimistic about turning tables.

“We are looking forward to denying them a hat-trick. We observed a few changes we have to make and I am confident they will bear fruit.”

Otieno was also of the view that scrum half Anthony Kinene should be replaced by Peter Mutai, and Michael Wokorach on the wing by Tony Onyango in the starting lineup.

“We expect a more physical and tactical game. We will correct our mistakes since we have had time to put the team together,” Otieno added.

Winger and speed merchant Justin Kimono will pair up with Benon Kiiza in the back line.

Kimono, who has registered a number of tries on the national team, last week narrowly missed one due to poor ball passing but is determined to lift the Warriors in Nairobi.

Otieno describes Kimono as the best asset once paired with the perfect partner which he is confident they will.

However, the Counties tactician Jan Bonney eagerly awaits the anticipated showdown.

“I am sure the Warriors are not ready for another defeat but we are out to finish our tour victorious. That is what will make Saturday’s game more challenging on both sides”

Multichoice East Africa and SuperSport have not only broadcast live and recorded games of the tour on television, but have funded the host rugby unions with US$10 000 (Ush25m).

Vision Group, Xfm, Airtel, Nile Special, Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Tullow Oil, Crane Bank, UAP Insurance, Victoria University and G4s are other sponsors of the tour.