Shujaa proceeded to the semifinal of the Challenger Series in Uruguay following a narrow 7-5 victory over Uganda in the Quarterfinal. A late tackle on Tony Omondi at the try line resulted in Aaron Ofoyrwoth receiving a yellow card and Shujaa was awarded a penalty try. Philip Wokorach quickly responded for the cranes with an unconverted try.
Both teams tested each other’s attacking and defending skills however, Shujaa’s green wall was impenetrable and they secured the much-needed victory.
On their way to this quarterfinal, Shujaa saw Tonga off with a 17-14 in the final Pool A match. It was John Okoth who dotted down first in the opening minute of the match with Tony Omondi converting for an early 7-0 lead. An infringement by Tonga’s Semisi Maasi saw him sent to the sinbin, Kenya making the most of that one man advantage dazzled the fans with excellent ball in hand and support play skills as the ball went from Ambetsa to Amaitsa and finally to Omondi who landed our second try but the conversion was unsuccessful.
They’re bringing the 🔥 again!@KenyaSevens put this one together perfectly for Anthony Omondi 🇰🇪
Watch all the #7sChallengerSeries action: https://t.co/9tRcnXR930 pic.twitter.com/QONhuauBmL
— HSBC SVNS (@SVNSSeries) March 9, 2024
Once Maasi was back on the field of play, Tonga were quick on their feet as they landed an unconverted try taking the scores to 12-7 at the break. A second try for them saw them leapfrog to the lead by a two-point margin as Maasi added the extras. Lamec Ambetsa was sent to the sinbin for an infringement but Kenya defended very efficiently ensuring they didn’t concede in point. Nygel Amaitsa’s try sealed off our victory securing a spot in the quarterfinal.
Difference. Made. 🇰🇪
Nygel Pettersan Amaitsa clinches a HUGE victory late on for @KenyaSevens against Tonga!
Watch all the #7sChallengerSeries action: https://t.co/9tRcnXR930 pic.twitter.com/B5CJUYilQ8
— HSBC SVNS (@SVNSSeries) March 9, 2024
Shujaa will play Hong Kong China in the Cup semifinal at 10:02pm EAT.