Zimbabwe Sables apologise for Kenyan humiliation

The Zimbabwe senior men's rugby team, the Sables, have apologised for the poor performance during the 61-15 mauling at the hands of Kenya last weekend during the Africa Cup Group 1A match at the Police Grounds.

The Sables face Uganda next weekend in their second home match at the same venue.

Speaking during a media briefing in the capital Sables coach Cyprian "Supa" Mandenge said they had put the loss behind and regrouped and are focusing on their next match against Uganda.

Team captain Denford Mutamangira said preparations were marred by issues surrounding the players' welfare and allowances which have now been resolved with the rugby union.

ZRU vice president Noddy Kanyangarara admitted Kenya had better preparations, adding they have now bridged the gap between the players and the union and promised to engage other countries for friendlies and preparatory matches.

The Zimbabwe rugby succumbed to a heavy defeat in Africa Cup action on its return to the Police Grounds after an absence of two decades.

The Sables got off a slow start with Kenya racing into a 12-3 lead before a Boyd Rouse try and Leniance Tambwera conversion saw the hosts reduce the deficit to 12-10.

The Kenyans continued to push and scored further tries that handed them a 24-15 lead at half time.

The second half was, however, disastrous for the Sables who failed to score any try while Kenya proved their dominance and powered to a convincing 61-15 win.

The Sables coach, captain, vice and ZRU vice president all promised an improved performance against Uganda as they cannot afford to lose and face relegation to the unfashionable Africa Cup Group 1B.

The team is expected back in camp on Sunday ahead of next week's home encounter against Uganda.