Africa 7's 2022: Cruising Shujaa sweep Namibia to edge closer to main cup semis

The men’s national rugby 7's side, Shujaa, showed a different side to their game as they put in a brilliant performance to defeat Namibia 33-7 in their second pool match and consequently move closer to securing a spot in the main cup semifinal scheduled for Sunday 24 April 2022.

Despite having managed wins in their opening two games against Senegal and Zimbabwe, the Innocent Simiyu currently coached side had looked unconvincing in the manner in which they went about their business particularly against Zimbabwe in the pool opener where they had to overturn a 12 point deficit.

Africa 7's 2022: Taabu the hero as Shujaa stun Zimbabwe in glorious comeback

However, the team shifted through gears at the Kyadondo Grounds in Kampala, Uganda as they put out a Namibia side that had had little response after snatching an early 0-7 lead in the game courtesy of their patience and excellent ball handling skills that saw them cross over the tryline for their only score in the match.

Indiscipline would come to haunt Namibia as they were reduced to six men, captain Nelson Oyoo leading from the front as he finished off a scrum move with Kenya having a man advantage to open the scoring and reduce the deficit to 5-7 following Tony Omondi’s unsuccessful conversion.

Oyoo would then give Shujaa a first time 12-7 halftime lead as he fended off a challenge from his marker before landing his brace which was this time converted by Omondi.

Africa 7s 2022: Mwale shines as Shujaa beat Senegal to get title defense off to a perfect start

In the second half, substitutes Edmond Anya, Timothy Mmasi and debutant Amon Wamalwa emerged from the bench to put the score beyond reach as all their tries were successfully converted to settle the contest.

With the victory, Kenya are guaranteed a top two finish in the group and will face Madagascar on Sunday morning in the battle for top spot.

Shujaa only now need to win their semifinal game to ensure their ticket to the 2022 Rugby World Cup Sevens that will take place in South Africa later in September.

Shujaa Fixtures and Time

Saturday 23 April 2022

Kenya 24-19 Zimbabwe

Kenya 33-7 Namibia

Sunday 24 April 2022

Kenya vs Madagascar - 1006EAT

Round 1 Result

Kenya 19-00 Senegal