Rugby: Shujaa lose to Ireland in Hong Kong Sevens opener

Ireland's Matthew McDonald beats Billy Odhiambo (left) and Nelson Oyoo on day two of the HSBC Canada Sevens at BC Place Stadium [Courtesy-World Rugby]

Kenya Sevens begun the 2023 World Rugby Sevens Series season on the back foot after losing to Ireland 28-12 in their Hong Kong Sevens opener match at the Hong Kong Stadium on Friday.

Despite Olympian Billy Odhiambo landing a brace in the match, Shujaa could not break down the Irish making their work even harder in their remaining Group D matches where they have to play South American rugby heavyweights Argentina and Canada on Saturday.

Odhiambo gave Kenya a narrow 5-0 lead after touching down an unconverted try in the far left corner before the Irish took a 7-5 lead when Niall Comerford corner post try was converted by Mark Roche.

Poor ball handling from Shujaa would comeback to haunt the Damian McGrath led side when Jordan Conroy midfield-splitting run gifted the Irish an easy center post try that Roche converted for a 14-5 halftime lead.

Shujaa would return more positive and aggressive in the second half when Odhiambo landed his brace that was converted by Anthony Omondi but the Irish slowed down Kenya's comeback attempt with two late tries from Conroy and Jack Kelly to win 28-12 after Billy Dardis conversions.

The defeat leaves Shujaa third in Group D standings with one point same as Canada who were thrashed 36-0 by Argentina.

The South Americans lead the log with three points same as Ireland but with a superior point difference.

Kenya must now defeat Argentina and Canada today at 6.25am and 9.45pm respectively on Saturday to stand a chance of qualifying for the Main Cup knock out stages.