Shujaa crash out of Vancouver Sevens
Rugby
By
Washington Onyango
| Feb 22, 2025
Kenya Sevens' struggles in the 2024 HSBC Vancouver Sevens continued as they suffered two consecutive defeats in Group A, effectively eliminating them from contention for the Cup quarterfinals.
Shujaa, who are currently in the relegation zone, fell 24-0 to Argentina in their opening match before succumbing to a 33-7 loss against France on Saturday morning.
Kenya went into the match against France hoping to end a poor run, having won only once in their last 10 encounters against Les Bleus. However, early mistakes proved costly as France took full advantage to dictate the game.
An overthrow at the line-out by Samuel Asati gifted possession to the French, who quickly spread the ball wide for Simon Desert to touch down. Enahemo Artaud converted for a 7-0 lead.
The French continued to dominate as Stephen Parez Edo crossed for a second try before Edo Martin capitalized on another defensive lapse to bag his brace, stretching the lead to 19-0 before halftime.
READ MORE
Ruto rewards Sawe Sh8m, car for breaking London marathon record
Over 300 people displaced as heavy rains batter Mombasa
New 2030 plan targets billions in financing for farmers and MSMEs
Maina named Vision 2030 acting director
New initiative to increase accessibility to spectacles launched
Kenya's path to first-world status requires civic reform
To get it right, let us start right: How Kenya can best reclaim Vision 2030
Murang'a leads counties in jobs, digital services
Indiza, Wakhu, Mediratta start early preps for 2027 MKO
Murang'a tops ranking as rural counties lag in service automation
Kenya Sevens finally responded through Patrick Odongo, who finished off a well-worked move down the right wing. His try, converted successfully, gave Shujaa a glimmer of hope at 19-7 heading into the break.
Despite a determined effort in the second half, Shujaa found themselves on the back foot once again. Gregoire Arfeuil added another try for France, taking the score to 26-7.
Kenya's Brian Tanga thought he had pulled one back, but his try was ruled out due to a forward pass. The final blow came when Celian Pouzelgues sprinted past Kenya's defense to score France's fifth try, sealing a 33-7 victory.
The result leaves Kenya Sevens without a win in their first two matches, and out of contention for the main cup competition. They will, however, conclude their group-stage campaign against Great Britain at 10:58 p.m. on Saturday, aiming for a consolation win.
With Shujaa struggling in the World Rugby Sevens Series and currently in the relegation zone, their performance in Vancouver raises further concerns about their survival in the top tier of the series.
The team will need to regroup quickly to avoid further setbacks in upcoming tournaments.