NEWS

Kenya 7s power past Germany to qualify for 2025 HSBC SVNs Series

By Amanga collins

Posted on June 2, 2024

Kenya 7s forward Kevin Wekesa in Challenger Series. PHOTO/Rugby Afrique

Kenya 7s, also known as Shujaa, have made a triumphant return to the World SVNs Series after a remarkable performance that saw them defeat Germany 33-15 in a decisive match in Madrid.

Shujaa had been relegated last year following a loss to Canada and were eager to rejoin the top tier after a season’s absence.

Germany vs kenya 7s

Germany, buoyed by a 19-14 quarterfinal win over Kenya 7s in the Munich Challengers Series, also aimed to secure a spot in the Series.

Kenya 7s huddle in Challenger Series. PHOTO/Rugby Afrique

The match began with Germany taking an early lead when Chris Umeh scored in the left corner in the first minute. Shujaa quickly responded, with skipper Vincent Onyala charging forward to touch down for a try, which was converted to bring the score to 7-5.

Kenya faced a setback when Chrissant Ojwang was sent off for two minutes due to a high tackle, and Germany capitalized on this opportunity to lead 12-7.

Upon returning from the sin bin, Ojwang redeemed himself by landing a try that leveled the scores at 12-12 by halftime.

EDITOR’S PICKS:

In the second half, John Okoth raced through the defense to score a centre post try, which was successfully converted, giving Shujaa a 19-12 lead.

Kenya 7s open gap

Although Germany’s Maximillan Heid scored in the 10th minute, subsequent tries by George Ooro and Kevin Wekesa secured Shujaa’s victory and their return to the top tier.