It took an outstanding second-half turnaround by the Makis of Madagascar to post a revenge win against Kenya’s Lionesses on May 4, the first round of the 2024 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup.
Madagascar won 29-22, their first win against the Lionesses since 2021.
Trailing 0-12 just two minutes before halftime, Madagascar built on their number of breakaways from deep in their half in the latter part of the first 40 minutes to post a deserved 29-20 victory against Kenya in the first round of the Africa Championship, a qualifier for the 2025 Rugby World Cup in England.
It was all Kenya in the first 20 minutes or so, playing with a sometimes following but swirling wind. They were first on the board after good pressure in the first seven minutes and increased the 7-0 lead with an unconverted try by right-wing Diana Awino 10 minutes later – and they were full value for the lead.
Madagascar was under the cosh and very much so. Poor handling by the Kenyans cost them another possible score.
Even the odd breakaway move was never deep into Madagascar’s half. But then in the 25th minute, Kenya’s scrumhalf Winnie Awino, who had an outstanding game, broke from her own 25 – and that seemingly woke up the somewhat uncertain Madagascar side.
Madagascar suddenly seemed to be more accurate with their first-time tackles, and the home side backs made some telling breaks and excellent inter-passing to take them deep into the Kenyan half just before halftime – but not before they had broached the Kenya defense two minutes from halftime with a quick tap-and-go for an unconverted try.
At 5-12, Madagascar wasn’t out of it by any means, the home front team let loose to show what they are capable of exquisite off-loading. A defensive Kenya error just before halftime saw the team move closer at 10-12, but Kenya’s prop Rose Otieno then scored to extend their lead to 17-10.
However, Madagascar was not to be outdone and scored two quick tries in succession to lead 22-17 before the Kenya Lionesses fought back and got an unconverted try to tie the scores at 22-22.
Right at the end, the Lionesses were in Madagascar’s territory – but they lost possession and the hosts’ reprieve saw them back onto attack and score right at the end to win 29-22 – Madagascar’s first victory over Kenya in three years.
The second round of the 2024 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup, will commence at 13:00 (East African Time) on May 8, with South Africa playing against Kenya. Followed by a match between Madagascar and Cameroon at 15:00 (East African Time).
All matches will be streamed on the Rugby Africa Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/RugbyAfrique) and YouTube Page (https://www.youtube.com/c/RugbyAfrique).
Madagascar vs Kenya
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