Hong Kong 7s: Shujaa finish 10th after narrow loss to South Africa

Kenya 7s national team, Shujaa, concluded their Hong Kong 7s campaign in tenth place after a nail-biting 19-17 defeat to South Africa in a tense encounter played on Sunday 30 March at the Kai Tai Stadium in China.

The match started on a rough note for Kenya, as they failed to secure possession from the kickoff. South Africa capitalized on the error, swiftly scoring a converted try to take an early lead.

Kabras make history with 10th consecutive final as Oilers join party

Determined to respond, Kenya pushed deep into South Africa’s half, but a scrappy play resulted in a knock-on, gifting possession back to their opponents. The Blitzboks wasted no time in punishing Shujaa’s mistake, adding an unconverted try to extend their advantage.

Kenya found themselves struggling in their danger zone, but Patrick Odongo provided a spark, slicing through defenders before linking up with Samuel Asati, who set up Nygel Amaitsa for Kenya’s first try of the match. Amaitsa successfully converted to narrow the deficit.

Momentum swung in Kenya’s favor as they forced a crucial turnover, leading to a well-executed kick-and-chase. Amaitsa showed great pace to beat the South African defense and score his second try just before halftime, bringing Kenya right back into the contest.

At the start of the second half, Kenya enjoyed a numerical advantage after a South African player was sin-binned for a high tackle.

Although Odongo's first attempt at crossing the whitewash was unsuccessful, he made amends moments later with a stunning solo effort to hand Kenya the lead. However, the conversion attempt was off target.

Once restored to full strength, South Africa found a way past Kenya’s resilient defense, with Sivine Soyizwapi crossing over to reclaim the lead for the Blitzboks.

With time ticking away, Kenya pressed forward in search of a winning score but struggled to break through South Africa’s defensive wall.

A final scrappy play saw South Africa regain possession and kick the ball to touch, sealing their 19-17 victory.

Shujaa’s Hong Kong 7s Results

Kenya 19-0 Spain

Great Britain 12-7 Kenya

France 14-7 Kenya

Kenya 17-10 USA

South Africa 19-17 Kenya