Aasai

Kenya 7s secured a spot in the ninth-place playoff at the Hong Kong Sevens after a hard-fought 17-10 victory over the USA in the semi-final on Saturday. The win sets up a final showdown for Shujaa, who will face either South Africa or Uruguay on Sunday at 7:00 a.m.

Shujaa’s Road to Victory

Kenya started the match with intensity, making an early statement when Kevin Wekesa powered through his marker to score the opening try. The successful conversion gave Shujaa a 7-0 lead.

Despite several missed opportunities—George Ooro knocking on in the try area and Patrick Odongo losing control of the ball while breaking away—Shujaa maintained pressure.

Just before halftime, the USA responded with a try from Ben Broselle, who found space on the left and outran Vincent Onyala. A missed conversion kept Kenya ahead with a narrow 7-5 lead at the break.

Second-Half Surge

After halftime, Onyala quickly capitalized on a penalty near the USA’s try line, tapping and diving over to extend Kenya’s advantage to 12-5. Shujaa further widened the gap when Odongo sprinted down the left wing for a try in the corner, making it 17-5.

Although Broselle scored a late try for the USA at the stroke of full-time, it wasn’t enough to deny Kenya their place in the ninth-place final.

USA’s Relegation Woes

With this loss, the USA’s struggles this season continue, as they are now set to battle for survival in the relegation playoffs at their home tournament, the LA 7s. Meanwhile, Kenya 7s remain focused on finishing strong as they prepare for their final clash on Sunday.