Kenya 7s showed marked improvement at the Cape Town 7s, securing a seventh-place finish after defeating Great Britain 32-17 in the playoffs on Sunday.
This was a notable rise from their 10th-place finish in the first leg, which marked their return to the World Rugby Sevens Series after a season-long absence.
Kenya 7s determination
Shujaa, determined to end the tournament on a high, overcame a challenging start, which saw them win just one of their opening three matches—a victory against Australia. They earned a spot in the seventh-place playoff despite a 26-14 loss to Argentina in the quarterfinals.
Kenya 7s forward Kevin Wekesa in Challenger Series. PHOTO/Rugby Afrique
The playoff clash saw Kenya make a strong start, with Anthony Omondi setting up George Ooro, who outpaced his marker on the outside to score in the first minute. Omondi converted to give Shujaa an early 7-0 lead.
Kenya’s attack continued to trouble the Great Britain defence, with Nygel Amaitsa’s offload finding Patrick Odongo, who powered through for the second try. Odongo soon added another, extending the lead to 17-0.
Samuel Asati capitalized on a quick tap, selling a dummy before racing over the line for Kenya’s fourth try and a commanding 22-0 advantage. Great Britain responded through Sunni Jardine, who sprinted in for their first points.
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Matt Davidson added a converted try for Great Britain early in the second half, narrowing the gap. However, Amaitsa produced a brilliant solo effort, chipping behind the defense and chasing down the ball to score Kenya’s fifth try.
Despite a late effort from Luke Mehson for Great Britain, Amaitsa sealed the game with his second try, benefiting from an offload by Floydd Wabwire. The match ended 32-17 in favour of Kenya.
Kenya 7s speedster Patrick Odongo scores. PHOTO/Mike Lee for World Rugby.
Shujaa will return to action at the Perth 7s in Australia, scheduled for January 24–26, after a 46-day break.
