Morans overpower Mauritius in Africa Men's 7s opener
Reading Time: 2min | Sat. 29.06.24. | 12:28
The Kenyans headed into this tournament as defending champions having won the 2023 edition by defeating South Africa 17-12 in Harare, Zimbabwe to book a direct Olympic slot
Kenya 7s national team; Morans made light work of Africa Men's 7s hosts Mauritius to defeat them 40-0 in their opening match played at the Labourdonnais Sports Club on Saturday.
The Kenyans headed into this tournament as defending champions having won the 2023 edition by defeating South Africa 17-12 in Harare, Zimbabwe to book a direct Olympic slot.
It was vintage player Edmond Anya who opened the scores for Morans thanks to his electric speed. Amon Wamalwa's attempt to convert fell short to see the Kenyans lead at 5-0.
_(1).jpg)
Motivated by their first try, Kenyans now played their hearts out, and this time Dennis Abukuse was set up by Benson Salem, racing clear to score the second try for Kenya. Wamalwa's conversion attempt was successful.
Mauritius then tried to get to the scoreboard, but the Kenyans were good on counter attack, forcing their hosts to commit handling errors. Kenya regained possession.
This time round, it was Salem dancing through Mauritius' defense to add another try for Kenyans. Wamalwa was sure with the conversion to see the half time scores at 19-0.
The Morans came in breathing fire in the final half, scoring 21 more points that downed their opponents.
Elvis Olukusi, Anya, and Salem all scored in the half to end Kenya's first match on a high.
They will lock horns with Nigeria at 12:34 pm before taking on Madagascar at 3:18 pm.
The tournament format this year is unique. It will be held over two weekends, June 29-30 and July 6-7. This extended format presents both opportunities and challenges.
The overall winner will be determined by the points accumulated across the two rounds.
Teams’ finishing positions after the knockout phase will earn ranking points, which will be used for seeding in the second round's pool draw.
The top two ranked teams after both rounds will qualify for the 2025 World Rugby 7s Challenger Series.
Morans Squad to Mauritius: Brian Mutua (CC), Ben Salem (CC), William Mwanji, Dennis Abukuse, Elvis Olukusi, Richard Liva, Gabriel Ayimba, Harmony Wamalwa, Festus Shiasi, Joel Inzuga, Victor Odhiambo, Edmund Anya
Head Coach: Louis Kisia
Team Manager: Morgan Ngumbi
Physio: John Elly
