Andrew
Online Reporter
OUTGUNNED, outclassed and outlasted.
That is how Zimbabwe’s bid to end a 31-year wait for a Rugby World Cup appearance ended, as the Sables went down 34-19 to rivals Namibia in the semi-final of the Rugby Africa Cup at the Stade Maurice David in France on Wednesday night.
Despite a few flurries from the team, the Welwitschias hardly looked bothered as they marched to yet another final.
Namibia now have a chance to make it seven straight rugby World Cup appearances.
The Sables’ arch-rivals got their points from tries by flanker Wian Conradie, wingers JC Greyling and Gerswin Mouton, right flanker Janco Venter and a penalty-try awarded against Zimbabwe.
Fly-half Cliven Loubser chipped in with two conversions and a penalty.
In response, Zimbabwe got their scores from tight-head prop Cleopas Kundiona, replacements Kelvin Kanenungo and Liam Larkan, while skipper Hilton Mudariki chipped in with two conversions.
Earlier in the day, Kenya survived by the skin of their teeth to beat a resurgent Algeria 36-33 to book their place in Sunday’s final against Namibia.
Zimbabwe and Algeria are now set to meet on Sunday for the third-place play-off match.
Online Reporter