Zimbabwe edge Namibia to lift Barthes Cup
Zimbabwe are the 2022 Barthes Cup champions following a 19-14 win over favourites Namibia at the Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday April 17.
The tense final that was played under slight showers was too close to call as both teams battled out for top honours.
Namibia who beat Kenya 16-5 in the semis began the match on a bright note, earning an early penalty that was converted by Riaan Grove for a 3-0 lead.
Zimbabwe quickly responded with their own penalty converted by Brendan Marume to level matters and later on earned a first try of the game to stretch their lead to 8-3. Quirione Majiedt managed to get some space in the Namibia defense and his trickery was enough to hand Zimbabwe their first try of the game
An infringement by Zimbabwe allowed Namibia to score yet another penalty through Geraldo Beukes but Takudzwa Musingwini scored yet another try for Zimbabwe to take a 11-6 halftime lead.
Another penalty kick in the second half by Namibia reduced the arrears to two points with Geraldo Beukes scoring another penalty for Namibia. A brilliant interchange down the left flank released Panashe Zuze who scored Zimbabwe’s second try which proved too vital in the game.
With the scores at 16-14, the game witnessed a nervy ending but a penalty for Zimbabwe eased pressure on the Zimbabweans. A late surge by Namibia was not enough as good defensive play by Zimbabwe ensured that they soaked in the pressure to the last minute.
