Perth 7s: Shujaa battle past USA to book ninth-place final spot

Kenya’s Shujaa edged out the USA 26-21 in a nail-biting ninth-place semifinal match played on Saturday 25 January at the HBF Park in Western Australia.

The sensational victory saw the team progress to the ninth place final. Buoyed by their 19-5 win over Uruguay in their final pool match, Shujaa showcased grit and flair to overcome the resilient Americans.

This was the sixth meeting between the two teams since 2022, with both sides evenly matched in their previous encounters. Kenya had recorded memorable wins, including a 19-0 triumph at the 2023 Toulouse 7s, while the USA had edged close contests, such as their 26-21 victory at the 2023 Los Angeles 7s.

The USA opened the scoring through Adam Channel, who powered through Kenya’s defense for the first try of the match. A successful conversion gave the Americans an early 7-0 lead.

Kenya responded swiftly with a stunning individual effort from speedster Patrick Odongo, who broke through a tackle to score Shujaa’s first try.

Perth 7s: Shujaa stifle Uruguay to record first tournament victory

The commentator summed up the moment, exclaiming, “Odongo is a star for Kenya. Oh, I love this guy!”

With the conversion sailing through, the scores were tied 7-7.

Captain George Ooro then took center stage, using his brute strength to crash over for Kenya’s second try.

The play evoked memories of former Shujaa powerhouse Alvin ‘Buffa’ Otieno. Although the conversion was missed, Kenya led 12-7 at halftime.

The second half saw Kenya start with renewed energy.

Dennis Abukuse set up Ooro for his brace, and this time, the conversion was successful, pushing Kenya’s lead to 19-7, much to the delight of the fans.

The USA clawed back into the game, with Channel completing his brace from a break through the middle of the pitch. A successful conversion brought the scores to 19-14, keeping the match finely poised.

In a crucial defensive moment, Abukuse’s sharp anticipation denied the USA an equalizing try, forcing a lineout that shifted momentum back to Kenya.

From the ensuing play, Floyd Wabwire’s brilliant kick-and-chase resulted in a sensational try that sent Kenyan fans into raptures. The conversion pushed the lead to 26-14.

The USA refused to back down, responding almost immediately with a try from Tala Talapusi. A successful conversion brought the score to 26-21, setting up a tense finish.

Kenya displayed composure in the dying moments, kicking the ball to touch to signal the end of an entertaining contest.

With this win, Shujaa will face New Zealand, who beat Kenya 29-14 in the pools on Friday.