Shujaa into Dubai Sevens Cup Quarters

The national sevens team dusted off their dispiriting defeat at the hands of South Africa to overpower Uganda 29-14 and secure their Cup Quarters slot at the HSBC World Series opening leg in Dubai.

Kenya had lost 48-5 to South Africa in their second match and needed to win against Uganda and hope Canada – whom they defeated in Friday’s opener – lose to the Blitzboks.

Shujaa got the job done with the Boks later dominating the Canadians 28-0 to fly into the Cup Quarters with three wins in three and off the back of a clean sheet.

Dennis Ombachi got Kenya off the mark almost immediately when he powered through a crowded Ugandan defence flying in under the posts to score his 39th career try.

The Nondescripts RFC winger however remained on the turf writhing in pain after appearing to have sustained a knock from Michael Okorach against his left leg before stumbling into a fall-cum-try and had to be driven off for medical attention.

Samuel Oliech stepped up to convert but Uganda offered an instant response through Solomon Okia who capitalized on poor handling from the Shujaa to score his fourth try in Dubai which was converted to leave the tie level at 7-7.

Eden Agero put restored Kenya’s lead thanks to some quick thinking as he rose off the ruck unnoticed after tapping against the ball and then racing clear of two Ugandan clutches score to make it 12-7. Oliech failed to add the extras.

Daniel Sikuta added to Kenya’s lead moments later before Philip Wokorach takes matters into his own hands with the time in red.

Wokorach’s gorgeous chip and chase ends a mammoth half and both sides head to their huddles for a breather.

Two tries in the second half for Kenya settled the hugely physical tie as Shujaa rose to second in Pool A on seven points, two behind series champions South Africa.