Young Sables charge into thrilling finale against ...

Young Sables charge into thrilling finale against Kenya in Rugby Africa U-20 Barthes Trophy

Philemon Jambaya

ASSISTANT EDITOR

The Zimbabwe U20 rugby team, christened the Young Sables, have clawed their way to a heart-pounding showdown against Kenya in the Rugby Africa U-20 Barthes Trophy. This dramatic clash was set in motion by their electrifying victory over Namibia yesterday.

Meanwhile, their Kenyan counterparts had earlier secured their place in the grand finale with a dominant win against Tunisia.

The Young Sables’ journey wasn’t without its initial stumbles. Namibia, the former champions, drew first blood, leaving Zimbabwe trailing 0-5. But the resilient Young Sables refused to be cowed. A co-captain’s dream unfolded as Tawananyasha Bwanya’s electrifying try was beautifully converted by his co-captain, Benoni Nhekairo, propelling Zimbabwe ahead 7-5.

The dust had barely settled when Edward Sigauke, another Zimbabwean warrior, added another try. Nhekairo, in a display of unwavering accuracy, once again slotted the conversion, widening the lead to a comfortable 14-5. Namibia clawed back with two successful penalties, but Nhekairo answered with a penalty of his own, sending the teams into halftime with Zimbabwe holding a precarious 17-11 lead.

Sensing the Namibian threat, the Young Sables emerged from the break with a fiery determination. They wasted no time, scoring a quick try and watching Nhekairo coolly extend their lead with the conversion. Namibia, however, refused to surrender. Backed by a small contingent of their Kenyan counterparts, they roared back with a converted try, narrowing the gap to a tense 24-18.

The second half unfolded into a nail-biting spectacle. Points became scarce, with both teams locked in a defensive struggle. Finally, late in the game, Shammah Jackson emerged as Zimbabwe’s hero with a much-needed try. Though the conversion attempt fell short, two late penalties sealed the deal for the Young Sables, securing a well-deserved victory.

This win sets the stage for a truly pulsating finale – a clash of titans between Zimbabwe and Kenya. Both teams will undoubtedly pour their hearts out on the field, leaving it all for a chance to be crowned champions of the Rugby Africa U-20 Barthes Trophy.