Kenya loses two opening pool games in Vancouver

Kenya 7s men’s national team began the HSBC Canada sevens leg in Vancouver on the wrong footing, once again, as they tumbled in their two opening Pool C matches.

Shujaa first lost to Fiji in the opening game Friday night at BC Place by 31-12 before succumbing to their second defeat to Great Britain 26-12.

Kenya looked to have a decent start in the opening game against Fiji when Herman Humwa powered through to score the game’s opening try but the pool favorites had a perfect response as Josese Batirerega and Anasa Qaranivalu scored in the late minutes of the first half to lead 12-5.

Alvin Otieno pushed on to level matters after the break but Fiji reigned supreme afterwards, and thanks to two penalties, when Jermaia Matana scored twice late on to close the win for Fiji - a thirteenth consecutive victory over Kenya.

Shujaa couldn’t redeem themselves in the second game - a Saturday dawn game against Great Britain - as they never led, trailing 14-5 at halftime after a late try by Kevin Wekesa, to allowing two GB tries from Ethan Waddleton and Tom Emery.

Edmund Anya scored the consolation for Kenya, with Uruguay beating Fiji 17-14 in the other pool match.

Fierce battles expected as Kenya Cup last four clash

Great Britain lead the group standings with their two wins - after a 45-5 win over Uruguay in their first game - with both Uruguay and Fiji tied on four points from their single wins each.

Bottom placed Kenya next play Uruguay on Saturday. The game starts at 2320 EAT.

Fiji play Great Britain in the other Pool C tie at 2342 EAT.