Grace Adhiambo’s Hat-Trick Leads Kenya Lionesses to Victory Over Samoa

The Kenya Lionesses commenced their Challenger Series with a convincing 20-5 win over Samoa. Grace Adhiambo starred with a hat-trick, leading her team to victory. Despite some early struggles for possession, Kenya showcased strong defense and swift capitalizing on opportunities. The match marked their continued dominance over Samoa and underscored their determination to succeed in this year’s series.

On March 1, 2023, the Kenya Lionesses commenced their Challenger Series campaign with an impressive 20-5 victory over Samoa in Cape Town. Grace Adhiambo was the star of the match, netting a hat-trick that played a crucial role in the team’s victory. The match began with Adhiambo’s kick-off, although the Lionesses initially struggled for possession due to pressure from the Samoan side.

The Pacific Islanders attempted to establish their presence through tactical kicking to gain a lineout, but a formidable tackle from Adhiambo halted their advance. Following this, Kenya secured possession through a scrum, with Judith Okumu facilitating play. Despite a missed opportunity from Sharon Auma, the Kenyans swiftly regained control, allowing Adhiambo to exploit space on the left wing and score the opening try, leading 5-0 after the conversion attempt failed.

Samoa’s attempt to create momentum was thwarted by Kenya’s robust defense, which led to an eventual turnover. Although the Lionesses had a chance to extend their lead, their execution faltered. Santos’ indiscipline then resulted in a second yellow card for them. Kenya seized the opportunity from a poorly executed lineout by Samoa and, after a sequence of skillful passes, Adhiambo scored again just before halftime, with the team leading 10-0.

The second half began with Kenya’s mismanagement of the ball, allowing Samoa to capitalize and score their first try. However, the Lionesses responded quickly, with Naomi Amuguni completing a well-coordinated try after a series of impressive passes, increasing the lead to 15-5 despite another missed conversion.

Adhiambo completed her hat-trick in a breathtaking display, breaking through the center to evade the Samoan defense, effectively sealing the victory. Although Samoa attempted a comeback, time was against them, and referee Alexandra Ferre, officiating her debut Challenger Series match, signaled the end of the game. This victory reinforces Kenya’s historical advantage over Samoa, having previously triumphed 31-5 in the Olympic repechage in Monaco last year.

The Lionesses are drawing motivation from their previous loss in the Challenger Series final against South Africa, a narrow defeat that concluded 19-12. This experience has intensified their resolve to succeed in this year’s competition, and their impressive opening performance underscores their intent to claim the title.

In summary, the Kenya Lionesses opened their Challenger Series campaign with an emphatic win over Samoa, led by Grace Adhiambo’s exceptional hat-trick. Their robust defense and quick counter-attacks were pivotal in securing the victory. This result not only boosts their confidence but also highlights their determination to succeed in the series, drawing inspiration from past experiences to fuel their ambition for the title.

Original Source: www.mozzartsport.co.ke