Zimbabwe’s Junior Sables’ hopes of reclaiming the Rugby Africa Under-20 Barthes Trophy and qualifying for the World Rugby Junior Trophy were dashed on Friday after they fell to a 35-23 defeat against Kenya in a bruising semi-final in Kampala.
The loss ended Zimbabwe’s bid for a place in Tuesday’s final and left them with a third-place play-off against Tunisia, who were beaten 11-6 by defending champions Namibia in the other semi-final.
Kenya made a fast start and established a commanding 23-6 advantage by half-time, with tries from Brian Kiptanui and Rayvon Amunga, while full-back Faran Juma contributed the rest of their points through conversions and penalties.
Zimbabwe struggled to turn their opportunities into points in the opening half, with Connor Lovatt’s two penalties accounting for their only scores.
The Junior Sables showed greater attacking intent after the break and were rewarded when number eight Vimbiso Kasvosve powered over from a driving maul to reduce the deficit.
However, Kenya responded decisively, with Michael Andale, Jibril Lugonzo and Dennis Livoi all crossing to put the hosts firmly in control.
Michael Chimedza scored a late consolation try for Zimbabwe with the final play of the match, but it was too little, too late as Kenya secured their place in the final.
Zimbabwe captain Takudzwa Matsvimbo admitted the Junior Sables had made costly mistakes early in the contest and failed to punish Kenya when opportunities arose.
“It was a tough game, to be honest. We made a few mistakes in the beginning and that's on us,” Matsvimbo said.
“We didn't capitalise on their mistakes. We know what we're meant to. It's rugby.
“You make a mistake, you learn the hard way.”
The defeat will be particularly disappointing for Zimbabwe, who had set their sights on regaining the continental crown and securing a place at the World Rugby Junior Trophy.
Kenya will now face defending champions Namibia in Tuesday’s final, with both sides chasing a record fourth Barthes Trophy title.
Namibia booked their place in the decider after coming from behind to beat Tunisia 11-6.
Tunisia held a 6-0 lead at half-time after Mohamed Afli converted two penalties, but Namibia produced a composed second-half performance to turn the match around.
Substitute Nzola Nkunku scored the decisive try, while Mc-Rein Van Wyk added a penalty and a drop goal as the Junior Welwitschias advanced to another final.
Zimbabwe must now regroup quickly for the third-place play-off against Tunisia, while Kenya and Namibia will battle for continental supremacy in the championship final on Tuesday.