A rampant Kenya 15 side team thrashed Uganda 52-11 in the Confederation of African Rugby tournament semi-final at the Mahasimana stadium in Antananarivo Madagascar yesterday.

The win ensures Kenya stay in contention for a place at the Rugby World Cup in England in two years' time.

This was Kenya's biggest win over Uganda since 1997 when they handed them a 67-5 thrashing in Nairobi. Leading 19-6 at half time, Kenya turned on the style in the second half, scoring five tries, two penalties and a conversion. Scrum half Edwin Achayo was one of eight try scorers on the day for the Rugby Lions, landing a brace with young Joshua Chisanga, later voted man of the man touching down once.

Team captain Wilson Kopondo also touched down once alongside Oliver Mang'eni, Brian Nyikuli, Andrew Amonde and Cyprian Kuto. Kenny Andola managed two conversions with Fabian Olando adding a third conversion. Isaac Adimo added two penalties for Kenya.

Team manager Wangila Simiyu said: "We stuck to our structures. The boys were ready to defend their pride and that is what they did. We came into this match having rectified the mistakes from our previous encounter against Uganda. While captain Wilson Kopondo and Joshua Chisanga were outstanding, I still must commend the side under the stewardship of Jerome Paarwater, they played their hearts out. We are now done with this match and look forward to Sunday's encounter. We will carry the Kenyan flag high."