Lionesses suffer first loss in HSBC challenger series against spirited Thailand

Kenya Lionesses’ unbeaten run in the HSBC Challenger Series came to a screeching halt after a 28-12 loss to Thailand on Friday, 11 April, in Krakow, Poland.

The defeat marked their first in the competition, having gone unbeaten since the series began in South Africa.

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Despite the setback, the Dennis Mwanja-coached side had already sealed a spot in next month’s HSBC SVNS playoffs in Los Angeles following their earlier victory against Colombia and triumphs in South Africa.

Facing Thailand for the first time in the Challenger Series, Kenya struggled to retain possession early in the game.

An error in their own half was quickly punished as Thailand’s Dion Akwaja capitalised on a defensive lapse to score the opening try.

With a successful conversion, Thailand took an early lead.

The Lionesses responded with determination.

After a prolonged battle for possession, Sinaida Nyachio broke free to score Kenya’s first try, although the conversion went wide, narrowing the score to 7-5.

Kenya then took advantage of a Thai infringement in their red zone.

From a scrum, Judith Okumu linked up with Sheila Chajira, who expertly set up Stella Wafula for Kenya’s second try.

This time, Nyachio slotted in the conversion to hand Kenya a 12-7 lead.

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However, momentum shifted after Chajira was sent to the sin bin for an infringement, leaving Kenya a player down.

Thailand nearly capitalised immediately, but the defensive trio of Wafula, Naomi Amuguni and Grace Adhiambo forced the attacker out of touch.

Kenya regained possession but surrendered it again through a misjudged lineout to close the half.

The second half belonged entirely to Thailand. Passon Jaengjob intercepted a pass early on to sprint clear for their second try, reclaiming the lead at 14-12.

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Jirawan Chutrakun then delivered a solo masterclass to stretch Thailand’s advantage, with Wannaree Mechock adding the conversion to make it 21-12.

Chutrakun was not done yet. She returned with yet another try to put the game beyond Kenya's reach.

Mechock converted once more to bring the final score to 28-12.

Despite the loss, the Lionesses remain on course for a historic promotion to the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.

They will be looking to bounce back when they face Colombia at 6:28pm.