Commonwealth Games: Shujaa silence noisy neighbours, Uganda

The national men's rugby 7s side, Shujaa got their Commonwealth Games tourney up and running following a 27-14 derby win over Uganda with Johnstone Olindi dazzling in the encounter.

Kenya were seeking revenge after noisy neighbours, Uganda beat them in the 7s Rugby Africa Cup semi final as the Cranes went on to lift the title and seal a place in the Rugby Sevens World Cup.

Commonwealth Games: Kenya 7s out to seal quarters berth in Day 1

It did not take long for Kenya to get on the scoreboard as Johnstone Olindi’s quick thinking saw him pick up the ball from the ruck just outside the five meter line to touch down as he sold a dummy to the Ugandan players.

With wind on their sails, Shujaa registered their second try through Herman Humwa who touched down between the sticks after an offload from Tony Omondi who had initially received a switch pass from Olindi.

Billy Odhiambo showed a clean pair of heels after he picked up the ball from the ruck and went on a lung bursting run before touching down for a 17-0 lead.

Timothy Kisiga ensured Uganda went into the break with points on the board after running from inside his own half and turned on the afterburners to touch down between the sticks as they trailed 17-7 at half time.

The Cranes resumed the second half from where they left in the first with Philip Wokorach dishing out a hand off on Olindi on the left flank and run to put the ball down behind the post to make it a three points game.

McGrath beats war drums ahead of Shujaa opener against perennial foes Uganda

Kenya steadied their ship and got their first try of the second half when Olindi finished off with a try after Kenya went into a number of phases.

Shujaa had the last laugh as Kevin Wekesa received a pass from Oyoo on the right channel and strolled to the try box to ensure Kenya picked up a 27-14 win.