Heartbreak as Shujaa knocked out of Challenger Series

Kenya Seven’s Vincent Onyala and Hong Kong China compete in a line out on day three of the World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger 2024. [World Rugby]

Kenya Sevens are out Montevideo World Rugby Challenger Series.

Shujaa were knocked out after losing 21-14 to Hong Kong China in the semifinals played on Sunday evening.

Hong Kong were off the blocks first and scored from a well-executed line out set piece that was completed by Cado Lee for a 7-0 lead.

Lee returned to haunt Kenya once again, doubling Hong Kong’s lead to 14-0 after finishing yet another line out play.

Shujaa pulled a try back after a series of team work saw Lameck Ambetsa score his first international sevens try to reduce the gap to 14-7.

However, it was Hong Kong had the last laugh in the first half with Callum Mccullough going over for a try that was converted for a 21-7 lead at halftime.

In the final half, Hong Kong defended well and kept Kenya at bay before substitute Ben Salem went over to set a thrilling finish to the game with match set at 21-14.

Shujaa’s push for the final try was halted by a knock-on as Hong Kong sailed through to the finals.

Shujaa will face Chile in the third place playoffs.