Kenya Sevens rally to reach World Rugby Challenger Series semifinals

Samuel Asati of Shujaa (center) in action at the World Rugby Challenger Series in Dubai.[World Rugby]

Kenya Sevens on Saturday qualified for the last four of the ongoing World Rugby Challenger Series in Dubai after coming from behind to shake a stubborn Japan 21-19 in the quarterfinals.

Shujaa begun the tournament on a high on Friday after thumping Mexico 41-0 and Uganda 29-7 before losing 24-12 to Germany on Saturday in their final Group C match.

In the quarterfinals, Kippei Taninaka gave Japana a narrow 5-0 lead before Nygel Amaitsa finished Patrick Odongo’s intelligent kick and chase attack to lead 7-5 after Anthony Omondi’s conversion.

Japan would however take a 12-7 half time lead after Yoshihiro Noguchi scored after the hooter with a quick tap and go from a resultant late penalty by Kenya.

In the final half, Samuel Asati dummied his way to the try line for a 14-12 lead before Odongo fooled the Japanese defense to break from the 22 and touch down between the posts for a 21-12 lead.

A late red card to Festus Shiasi could do no harm as Kenya won 21-19 despite Takamasa Maruo late try.

Kenya will play Uruguay.