Kenya’s Lionesses hopes of winning a medal in Women’s Rugby sevens at the Commonwealth Games faded after a shocking 45-0 defeat to New Zealand in Women’s Pool Round-Pool A, at Robina Stadium.
Portia Woodman was the standout player for New Zealand, while Niall Williams grabbed herself a splendidly opportunistic try, chasing up to pounce as one of the Kenyans tried to shepherd the ball out over the dead-ball line.
Kelly Brazier and Gayle Broughton showed fantastic footwork to step through the Kenyan defence for their tries after Woodman gave New Zealand their fast start.
Having led 19-0 at the break, a double to Williams, including one in which she chased down and dived full length Wonder Woman style to plant a kick ahead just short of the dead ball line, saw the Kiwis pull well clear.
However, Kenya will have a chance to redeem themselves in their 2nd match against Canada at 12.11pm today.
This is the first time in history Women’s Rugby sevens is being played at Commonwealth Games.