By 
The Sables of Zimbabwe were crowned African champions on Sunday after comfortably humbling Algeria 29-03 in the 15’s Rugby Africa Cup final at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.
The Sables started off the game in good motion with two brilliant tries through winger Victor Burwe after efforts from full-back Takudzwa Musingwini who later made no mistake with the conversion.
Midway Zimbabwe were punished for diving into the ruck an opportunity the Algeria leading points scorer in the tournament Serge Caminati utilized, splitting the posts from 50 meters out.
However that didn’t stop Zimbabwe as Burwe was back again to complete a move started by Aiden Burnett who collected from the base of the scrum to pass it to skipper Hilton Mudariki who freed up Burwe.
In the second half, Zimbabwe handed fly half Tapiwa Mafula the kicking duties, going on to convert a penalty to take Sables to a 15-03 lead despite missing the next.
Into the final ten minutes of the game, Algeria let loose as they gave access to Zimbabwe to exploit them through Liam Larkan and Mafura who later added extras.
Brandon Mudzekenyedzi sealed it all exhibiting a good run to support Edward Sigauke who broke Algeria’s line only to finish under the posts.
This victory meant that Zimbabwe overthrew Namibia to become the new Champions of Africa in the 15’s.
On the side of Namibia who came into the tournament as favorites, they finished the tournament in fourth position after losing to Kenya in the semifinals.
For the hosts of Uganda, they finished 5th after edging Senegal 34-31 in a had fought win thanks to a Brilliant run from Timothy Kisiga and a number of brilliant performances from Joseph Aredo not forgoting Arnold Ocen and Byron Oketayot after being down at 13-17 at halftime time.
Rugby Cranes with an appreciation club for the fans.
Africa Rankings after the 15’s tournament.
- Zimbabwe
- Algeria
- Namibia
- Kenya
- Uganda
- Senegal
- Côte d’Ivoire
- Burkina Faso
