Kenya Lionesses confident of promotion to HSBC Women's Sevens after Challenger Series qualification
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Reading Time: 2min | Tue. 12.11.24. | 16:37
Dennis Mwanja's squad will take their second shot at promotion, having failed to secure a chance to the prestigious series this year
The Lionesses ended their weekend on a high after claiming silver in the Africa Women’s 7s tournament played from Saturday 9 to Sunday 10 November in Accra, Ghana.
They were too close to claiming the title but were edged by a resilient South Africa 19-12 at the final stage.
The @WomenBoks trophy celebration with Rugby Africa President @HMensahOfficial 🏆
— Rugby Afrique (@RugbyAfrique) November 11, 2024
It’s always feels good to be a champion 🥇🇿🇦#raw7s2024 #challengerseriesqualifier2024#ghanarugby pic.twitter.com/uw2DeOgBFF
Despite the loss, the Dennis Mwanja-coached side secured a spot at the HSBC Challenger Series, bringing them a step closer to qualifying for the HSBC World Rugby 7s Series.
They will be taking a second shot, having failed to secure a chance to the prestigious series this year.
Throughout the tournament, the Lionesses showed their strength and skill, opening with a commanding 61-0 win over Mauritius.
They then faced a tough battle against hosts Ghana, narrowly securing a 10-5 victory, and capped off the pool stage with a 27-22 win over Madagascar.
Their momentum continued into the quarterfinals, where they dominated the hosts Ghana with a 48-0 shutout. They went on to defeat Uganda 19-0 in the semifinals, setting up an intense final rematch with South Africa.
The final was another hard-fought contest, reminiscent of the 2023 Rugby Africa Women’s 7s showdown in which South Africa narrowly defeated Kenya 12-7, denying them a direct Olympic berth.
Speaking after the match, the team’s captain Sheila Chajira expressed confidence in the team’s prospects, noting that Uganda remains one of their most challenging rivals.
“Uganda are always our best opponent because we are just neighbors, and we are always looking forward to playing against them. It’s not an easy game, and you always have to fight for what you get,” Chajira said.
Reflecting on the past disappointment in missing out on the HSBC Series, the Lionesses are entering this campaign with heightened focus and determination.
"This time, our heads are in a different place. We’re looking forward to reaching the finals and qualifying for the HSBC,” she added.
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