High-flying Shujaa, Lionesses through to Challenger Series final

Kenya Shujaa and Lionesses showcased a rare combination of skill, brilliance, and talent to successfully cruize to the final of the ongoing HSBC Challenger Series in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Shujaa were in a class of their own after humbling Uruguay 21-5 while the hard-hitting Lionesses defeated Argentina 17-0 to book a slot at the final stage.

Patrick Odongo was the man of the match, scoring a hattrick that ensured Shujaa were at the lead.

Coach Bling elated with Shujaa fighting spirit in Challenger Series

The closely contested match started with the Kenyans piling the necessary pressure to the their opponents, causing them to remain in their danger zone.

Uruguay put up a spirited fight, but still could not match that of the Shujaa.

Shujaa were enjoying possession in the game, and soon the ball landed on Odongo's hands. The lanky speedster did not hesitate to race clear for Kenya's first try. Talented scrum half Samuel Asati was sure with the conversion to see Kenya take an early lead.

It was then a kick and chase from youngster Nygel Amaitsa, and Odongo's magical speed saw him score his second try of the match. Asati added the extras before the referee signalled for half time.

The Kenyans came in guns blazing in the final half, causing Uruguay to infringe in the opening minutes.

The infringement saw a Uruguay player sent to the naughty bin. Kenya made the numerical advantage count, and Odongo sent the crowd wild with the final try of the match. This time, it was Tony Omondi who added the extras.

Uruguay then bounced back to score the match's final try, but the Kenyans had already inflicted the damage to see the final score at 21-5.

Lionesses on the other hand proved to be the queens of African rugby following their impressive performances. The side showcased smooth and swift passes in the opening minutes of the match, causing the Argentinians to tire.

The Lionesses continued piling pressure, causing their opponents to infringe, and one was sent to the sin bin.

Following that, the hard-hitting Lionesses utilized the one-lady advantage to score through talented scrum hald Judith Akumu. Sinaida Nyachio's attempt to convert fell short.

Dennis Mwanja's charges kept their fine form going, and soon it was Naomi Amuguni going over for the second try. The conversion attempt was good. Nyachio then scored the final try for the Kenyans to see the energy-snapping match come to an end.

Lionesses will take on China in the final while Shujaa lock horns with Chile in the much-anticipated final match.