Administration Police (AP) Warriors produced a clinical display to edge Mean Machine 13-12 in a tightly contested Mwamba Cup clash played at the University of Nairobi (UON) Grounds on Saturday.
Mean Machine started brightly and struck first in the sixth minute when Shamala Dancan crossed the whitewash to give the students an early advantage. AP, however, responded with composure as Godwin Oluoch dotted down to level matters soon after.
Fly-half Ephraim Papai added the extras to hand the visitors a 7-5 lead.
The hosts fought back and reclaimed the lead through Nick Okong’o, who powered over for Mean Machine’s second try. Gabriel Okello was accurate from the tee, converting to make it 12-7 and swing momentum back in favour of the home side.
But AP showed their experience in the closing stages, tightening their defence and capitalising on scoring opportunities. Papai kept his nerve, slotting in two crucial penalties to turn the match on its head and seal a hard-fought 13-12 victory for the disciplined forces side.
The win sees AP Warriors advance to the next round of the Mwamba Cup, while Mean Machine bow out after a spirited performance in front of their home fans.
In another Mwamba Cup encounter, Kakamega based Sigalagala RFC edged NYS Spades 15-13 in a closely fought contest played at the NYS Headquarters, booking their place in the next round.