Kenya 7s were off to an impressive start in the 2024 Challenger Series in Dubai thrashing Mexico Serpientes 41-0 in the Dubai opener on Friday at the 7s stadium.
Seeking redemption from their disappointing performance in the 2023 World 7s Series, where they faced relegation, Shujaa approached a crucial event with determination.
Kenya 7s build-up
Before this event, they had secured victories in two tournaments, winning the Africa Men’s 7s to qualify for both the Olympic and Safari 7s.
Kenya 7s (Shujaa) players hurdle in a past match. Photo/Screen grab
Under the guidance of coach Kevin Wambua, Shujaa entered the event with an impressive 12-match unbeaten streak, aiming to maintain their winning form.
The opener saw Kevin Wekesa, positioned on the outside, scoring the first try. He received a well-executed pass, reaching the left corner for a 5-0 lead, despite a missed conversion.
Building on the momentum, Kenya doubled their lead to 10-0 as Wekesa showcased his strength, powering through two defenders to land at the same spot. Another missed conversion by Tony Omondi followed.
EDITOR’S PICKS
- How Leeon Nyang’ rose above pain
- Follow us on Scrummage Africa FB
- The story of Moreen Muritu
- Musila new KCB Rugby captain
Shujaa extended their lead with a skillful play orchestrated by Samuel Asati, who set up Nygel Amaitsa for a try near the posts. Omondi successfully converted, adding to the score.
Entering halftime with a comfortable lead, Kenya capitalized on the advantage when the Mexican team was reduced to six players due to a yellow card. Off the scrum, Patrick Odongo received the ball and scored his first international try.
The second half witnessed Odongo breaking through the defense once again, securing his second try. With Omondi converting, Shujaa surged to a commanding 29-0 lead.
Kenya 7s Kevin Wekesa attacks against the Fiji defense on day one of the HSBC Canada Sevens at BC Place Stadium on 16 April, 2022 in Vancouver, Canada. Photo credit: Mike Lee – KLC fotos for World Rugby
Vincent Onyala and John Okoth were also on the scoresheet with tries that handed them huge victory. Kenya 7s will be in action on Friday evening for a game against Uganda.
The HSBC Sevens Challenger 2024 will take place in three rounds on three continents between January and May, providing a clear promotion pathway to reach the pinnacle of HSBC SVNS in 2025.
The top four placed men’s and women’s World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger 2024 teams, based on cumulative series points after the third round, will secure their opportunity to compete in the new high-stakes promotion and relegation play-off competition at the SVNS Grand Final in Madrid on 31 May – 2 June 2024 against the teams ranked ninth to 12th from HSBC SVNS 2024.
