For the second consecutive tournament, Kenya 7s have qualified for the Cup quarterfinals after edging Great Britain 12-7 at the ongoing SVNS World Championship in Valladolid.
The victory saw Shujaa once again progress as one of the best third-placed teams after a hard-fought pool campaign.
Kenya 7s start
Knowing that only a win would boost their chances of advancing, Kenya got off to the perfect start when Festus Shiasi crossed over early in the match to hand Shujaa a 5-0 lead.
Great Britain responded strongly and took the lead through Charlton Kerr, whose darting run sliced through the Kenyan defence before Roan Frostwick added the conversion for a 7-5 advantage.
Shujaa had a golden opportunity to reclaim the lead before halftime, but Shiasi knocked on the ball in the final play of the opening half, allowing Great Britain to head into the break with a two-point cushion.
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Kenya made amends immediately after the restart. A well-worked move involving Samuel Asati Nyangila and Vincent Onyala created space for Patrick Odongo, who crossed over for the decisive try to restore Shujaa’s lead at 12-7.
Great Britain’s task became even more difficult when they were reduced to six players following a yellow card midway through the second half.
Despite enjoying a numerical advantage, Kenya were unable to add to their tally as Great Britain defended resolutely. However, Shujaa held their nerve and produced a crucial turnover in the closing stages to secure the victory and book their place in the Cup quarterfinals once again.
The result continues Kenya’s impressive run on the SVNS circuit and keeps alive their hopes of a deep run in Valladolid.
