Kenya men’s national Rugby Sevens team, Shujaa have been relegated from the World Rugby Sevens Series after losing 7-12 to Canada in the playoff final at Twickenham on Sunday 21 May 2023.
It was a nervy affair, both teams aware of what was at stake, the 12th and final slot in the reimagined series from 2024 onwards.
Shujaa started brightly, seeing more of the ball and indeed scored off a stolen ball from a Canadian lineout, Billy Odhiambo playing in captain Nelson Oyoo who turned his defenders inside out before touching down.
Tony Omondi converted to put Shujaa 7-0 ahead.
The loss of Kevin Wekesa seemed to knock the wind out of the Shujaa sails as Canada began to see more of the ball and they did score at the stroke of half time, Brock Webster converting Josiah Morra’s try to level up scores, 7-7 at the break.
The second half remained tight, either side committing themselves on defense.
Alex Russell’s late try and the ensuing penalty advantage meant Canada were in possession at full time, kicking the ball out to confirm their status for next season as Shujaa will be out of the series for the first time since attaining core status in the 2004/2005 season.
