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Shujaa's return to top-flight rugby sevens was marked by sparks of brilliance but inconsistent performance.
Kenya’s rugby sevens team, Shujaa, is gearing up for the second leg of the HSBC Rugby Sevens Series in Cape Town, South Africa, after a rollercoaster performance in Dubai.
Returning to the elite series following their promotion, Shujaa experienced highs and lows, showcasing glimpses of brilliance but falling short of consistency.
The Dubai Sevens kicked off with heartbreak for Shujaa, who surrendered a 14-7 halftime lead in their opening match against France to lose 24-19 in overtime on Saturday.
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12:42 - 29.11.2024
'Built for resistance' - Kabras coach Carlos Kaytwa tips Shujaa to roar in Dubai 7s
Shujaa are making a return to the world series and face a fight to maintain their core status
George Ooro opened the scoring for Kenya, followed by a dazzling try from speedster Patrick Odongo, with Nygel Amaitsa converting both. Ben Salem added a third try, but France rallied to snatch the win.
In their second fixture, Shujaa redeemed themselves in a thrilling all-African clash against South Africa's Blitzboks.
Tries from Patrick Odongo, Kevin Wekesa, and Nygel Amaitsa powered Kenya to a hard-fought 22-17 victory, marking their first Series win since promotion. However, the momentum waned as they fell 31-14 to Australia in their final pool match.
Sunday offered renewed hope as Shujaa began the day with a commanding 21-7 victory over Ireland, earning a spot in the 9th-place final. Unfortunately, they fell short against Uruguay, finishing 10th overall in Dubai.
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15:47 - 27.11.2024
Explained: Why Tony Omondi will suit up for Shogun rugby instead of Shujaa at Dubai 7s
Tony Omondi will feature at the Dubai 7s despite not being named in the Shujaa squad alongside Co-Captain Vincent Onyala for the tournament amid a contractual standoff with Kenya Rugby Union.
With lessons learned, the team is now focused on the Cape Town leg. Drawn in Pool B alongside Spain and Australia, Shujaa will be looking to avenge their Dubai loss to the Australians while preparing for the formidable Spanish side, who reached the finals in Dubai.
Head coach Kevin Wambua will aim to regroup and build on their Dubai performance as Shujaa set their sights on Cape Town, hopeful to deliver a spirited performance, reigniting their campaign on the global stage.
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