Lionesses eager to end Africa Cup shortcomings

The national women’s rugby team Lionesses will be desperate to knock of their ‘nearly man’ curse at this year’s Africa Cup.

Head coach Kevin Wambua says the team that has finished runners-up in the past two editions is out to go a step better by lifting the continental title.

The Lionesses have a packed schedule between February and April with HSBC World Rugby Qualifiers set for March followed by Commonwealth Games barely a month later.

According to Wambua, a couple of friendly matches have been lined up for the period before the two tournaments as they eye more success this season.

“Our main plan this season is to perform well especially in the Hong Kong during the Qualifiers. We also expect a good run in Australia where we’ll be participating in the Commonwealth Games,” Wambua told Citizen Digital.

As stated earlier this month, the tactician maintained he will use the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) ten-aside tournament set to kick off on February 4 to scout for talent and recruit them into the national team.

“We will compile and unveil the final squad for the Qualifiers once the ten-aside tournament is concluded. Hopefully the series will sharpen the players’ techniques,” Wambua said.

This year, the Lionesses were honoured as the Best Team of the Year (Women’s category) at the annual SOYA Awards.