Kenya 7s secured a 21-7 victory over Ireland at the Sevens Stadium to progress to the ninth-place playoffs in the Dubai 7s.
Shujaa recorded a win against South Africa but were edged out by France and suffered a heavy defeat to Australia, ruling them out of the cup quarterfinals on Saturday.
Kenya 7s early pressure
Early pressure from the East Africans forced Ireland into a loose pass, allowing Kevin Wekesa to pounce and score the opening try. Nygel Pettersan Amaitsa added the conversion for a 7-0 lead.
Kenya 7s Nygel Amaitsa in action at the Paris Olympics Rugby 7s games. PHOTO/World Rugby
Ireland responded immediately, with Jordan Conroy finding a gap and sprinting clear for a try, which was converted to level the score at 7-7.
Shujaa regained the lead before halftime when Samuel Asati, attempting to score on the blind side, lost the ball in contact.
Denis Abukuse was quick to react, picking up the ball and diving over the try line. Amaitsa converted from a tight angle, giving Shujaa a 14-7 advantage at the break.
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The second half saw Chrisant Ojwang stretchered off due to injury, but Shujaa remained composed.
A heavy tackle caused Ireland to spill the ball, and Benson Salem Adoyo capitalized, racing clear to score Shujaa’s third try. Amaitsa’s conversion extended the lead to 21-7.
Kenya 7s Benson Salem against Mauritius in Africa Men’s 7s. PHOTO/Mauritius.Rugby
Despite George Ooro receiving a yellow card, Abukuse’s defensive alertness prevented Ireland from closing the gap.
Shujaa will now face Uruguay in the ninth-place playoffs.
