Vancouver 7s: Perfect start for Shujaa against USA

Shujaa registered a dream start to the Vancouver 7s after a last gasp 19-17 win over familiar foes the USA with Bush Mwale's try with seconds left on the clock enough to seal the victory.

Just like in the Singapore 7s, Shujaa were off to a wobbly start courtesy of a poor restart and despite displaying early signs of improvement in defense, Malachi Esdale crossed the whitewash after an overload in the right flank.

Shujaa responded two minutes later courtesy of a brilliant switch from Daniel Taabu to Kevin Wekesa who touched down between the posts which handed Taabu an easy kick to put Kenya ahead 7-5 lead.

The game was halted for around 10 minutes after American speedster Perry Baker picked what looked like a nasty injury as he was handed first aid on the pitch before being rushed to hospital.

With the wind in their sails, Shujaa extended their lead when Billy Odhiambo’s switch found that man again Kevin Wekesa who bagged his second try of the game but the missed conversion saw the game remain 12-5.

Innocent Simiyu’s charges were lucky to head into the break leading after taking time in the restart which handed the USA the ball with Tony Omondi being sent to the sin bin for a shoulder charge but the scoreboard remained unchanged.

Buoyed by the halftime team talk of Mike Friday, the USA had a perfect start to the second half with Kevon Williams showing a clean pair of heels to draw the Americans level with a successfully converted try.

Mike Friday’s boys took control of the game when Ben Broselle ploughed through the try line after evading two tackles and picking himself from the ground to slot a try in the left corner.

Bush Mwale showed brute strength to land a last-minute try despite the USA’s best efforts to stop him but an outstretched arm just under the posts handed Taabu easy two extras to ensure a 19-17 win.