Sydney 7s: Shujaa book Spain in 9th place QF after gritty win over Uruguay

The men’s national rugby 7s side, Shujaa, will be hoping for even better returns than their Hamilton 7s performance last weekend when they take on Spain in the 9th place quarterfinal clash in the Sydney 7s currently ongoing in Australia.

The Damian McGrath coached side, who recorded their best finish yet in the 2023 campaign following their tenth place finish in Hamilton last weekend, booked their clash against the Spaniards after a gritty 24-19 comeback win over Uruguay in their last Pool B clash, a result that saw the team record their only group win to finish in third place behind South Africa and New Zealand.

In the game, Shujaa showcased incredible character as they rallied from 0-14 down before completing the comeback victory courtesy of tries from Alvin ‘Buffa’ Otieno, Anthony Omondi and captain Nelson Oyoo who led from the front by scoring a brace to get the job done.

In the first two group matches, losses to African rivals South Africa and New Zealand ensured that the team’s wait to make it to the main cup quarterfinals for the first time this season were extended.

South Africa condemned the team to a 31-5 defeat before the All Black handed the team a 33-0 thrashing in the second game.

Despite humbling Kenya on the field, New Zealand showed their classy side off the pitch as they honoured Collins Injera and Willy Ambaka at the end of the match by presenting a jersey in honour of the two players who announced their retirement from rugby this week.

“Willy and Collins who I know is not here, on behalf of the All Black Sevens we just want to wish you all the best after this. Unbelievable career for both of you. A lot of hard fought battles and the things you have done for Kenyan rugby will never be forgotten. So, on behalf of all of us we wish you all the best boys for the rest of your career,” New Zealand captain Sam Dickson said.

Kenya take on Spain on Sunday morning at 0216EAT.