Shujaa remain winless in Hong Kong 7s after Canada defeat

The men’s national rugby 7s side Shujaa went down to a third consecutive group defeat in the 2023 HSBC World Rugby Sevens season opening outing in Hong Kong following their 14-19 loss against Canada on Saturday morning.

Having already dropped out of main cup contention following their second loss against Argentina, the Damian McGrath currently coached side had hoped for at least a first win in the season to help the team find its footing.

Shujaa knocked out of Hong Kong 7s main cup contention following Argentina defeat

That however remained to be a dream as the resilient Canadians went on to record their first win of the season after also losing their opening two matches to finish in third place ahead of Kenya.

With the result, Kenya now drop to the playoff places where they will hope to get a first win of the season after a difficult showing in the group stages of the season opening tournament.

The Canadians were the first to take a 0-7 lead in the match through a Phil Berna try that was converted by Thomas Isherwood at a time when Kenya had been reduced to six men following Herman Humwa’s deliberate knock on.

Willy Ambaka however ensured their lead was short lived as he restored parity following some brilliant handling after recognizing space between the Canadian defense when given a short line by Antony Omondi who added the extras with a successful conversion.

In the second half, two tries from Lachlan Kratz and a second Berna attempt couped with resolute defending just ensured the game was out of reach for Kenya by the time Billy Odhiambo touched down a converted attempt that reduced the deficit to 14-19 which they held onto.

Kenya will now drop to the 9th place quarter final places which will be played on Sunday morning.