Hong Kong 7s: Kenya Sevens semis quest undone by South Africa's last-gasp try

Kenya Sevens’ quest for a place in the Hong Kong 7s semifinals came to a heartbreaking end after a last-minute try handed South Africa a narrow 26-22 victory in a pulsating quarterfinal clash on Saturday, 18 April at Kai Tak Sports Park.

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Coming into the match, Shujaa held the psychological edge, having beaten the Blitzboks 22-17 in their previous meeting at the 2024 Dubai 7s.

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But this time, it was South Africa who had the final say, booking a semifinal date with the New Zealand men's national rugby sevens team, who earlier defeated France 19-10.

South Africa struck first after capitalising on early Kenyan indiscipline. A misplaced Kenyan phase handed the Blitzboks possession deep in attacking territory, and Selvyn Davids powered over for the opening try, converting it himself to give his side a 7-0 lead.

Kenya responded with intent, with John Okoth finishing off a well-worked move for a converted try to level matters.

However, momentum briefly swung back to South Africa when Vincent Onyala was sent off, reducing Kenya to six men. The Blitzboks took advantage, with Donovan Don crossing over to ensure the sides went into the break tied at 12-12.

The second half saw Kenya come out firing. Intense pressure forced a South African error, and Nygel Amaitsa combined well with Kevin Wekesa, who touched down for a try, though the conversion attempt missed.

With Onyala back on the field, Kenya regained stability and began to dictate phases despite conceding multiple penalties.

Their persistence paid off when Samuel Asati broke from a scrum and set up Festus Shiasi for another try, extending Kenya’s lead and putting them within touching distance of the semifinals.

But South Africa refused to back down. Quewin Nortje sparked hope with a brilliant kick-and-chase effort that resulted in a crucial try, narrowing the gap and setting up a tense finish.

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With the clock winding down, Siviwe Soyizwapi delivered the decisive blow, slicing through Kenya’s defence for a last-gasp try that sealed the 26-22 win. Although the conversion struck the post, it mattered little as the Blitzboks had already done enough to progress.

The defeat sees Kenya's men's national rugby sevens team miss out on the main cup semifinals, despite a spirited performance that once again underlined their potential. As one commentator noted during the match, “This is a team that, if they get it together, could be very dangerous.”

South Africa now advances to face New Zealand in the semifinals as they search for their first title win in Hong Kong.