Africa rugby15s champions Zimbabwe came from down to win against Kenya in their Victoria Cup encounter in Harare, Zimbabwe.
The hosts won by a slim margin of 30-29 ahead of the return leg in Nairobi in a fortnight to come.
With Zimbabwe commanding a 10-0, Monate Akuei landed Kenya’s first after Johnstone Mungau’s intercept but hosts would extend the lead to 17-5.
Resilient Simbas pulled one back too for 17-10 before Jacob Ojee’s line break saw Monate land his brace and keep things level at the interval.
Flanker Elkeans Musonye swang past Zimbabwe’s defenders to put Kenya 17-22 up but that was short-lived as Zimbabwe landed a converted try to lead 24-22.
Kenya however landed another five pointer as Peter Kilonzo set Mung’au with Antony Odhimbo adding the extras to go 24-29. Two late penalties saw Zimbabwe win 30-29.
Kenya’ next match is against Zambia on August 24 in Nairobi before playing Zimbabwe on September 21.
Additional information Ragahouse.com