Simbas fall short in quest for direct World Cup ticket

Kenya Rugby 15’s dream of earning a direct ticket to the 2019 Rugby World Cup finals set for Japan were nipped in the bud on Saturday after losing 53-28 to Namibia at the Windhoek Stadium.

The champions qualify for the World Cup as Africa number one, joining New Zealand, South Africa, Italy and a Repechage qualifier.

Now Simbas will have to face Canada, Germany and Hong Kong in France in November 11 for a global Repechage qualification tournament.

At the Windhoek Stadium, Willy Ambaka scored a double while Malcom Onsando and Mohammed Omollo added the third and fourth tries against Namibia’s seven tries, a penalty and four conversions.

Ian Snook’s charges went to the match needing a win to get a direct qualification but fell 22-7 by halftime as the visitors confirmed a direct qualification to Japan.

Kenya defeated Zimbabwe, Tunisia, Morocco and Uganda but lost to Namibia, the fourth time in a row, failing to earn the cherished direct ticket to the world showpiece .The match also doubled up as a season finale for the Africa Rugby Gold Cup.