Safari Sevens rugby : Treu defends Kenyan teams' performance

Kenya Sevens team head coach Paul Treu follows his team during Safari Sevens tournament match at Kasarani yesterday. [PHOTO/DENNIS OKEYO]

Kenya Sevens head coach Paul Treu says he is so far pleased with the performance of the Kenyan teams in the Safari Sevens rugby tournament at the Kasarani Stadium.

The three Kenyan representatives posted mixed results in the preliminary round matches yesterday with defending champions Shujaa starting the tournament on a shaky note.

Shujaa, with young and in-experienced players following the strike of their regulars, struggled to beat Germany 20-14 in the opening match before being held to a 12-12 draw by South African side Sharks.

However Shujaa have qualified for quarters after seeing of Golden Lions 17-12.

Morans are favourites for the quarters after securing a draw and a win in their first two group fixtures, drew 19-19 with Welsh Warriors before humiliating Boland Cavaliers 38-7.

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Simba Saba meanwhile lost 17-25 to Top Fry Samurai before bouncing back to stun Spain 10-15.

Although the three sides' performances have been heavily criticised by some rugby pundits and fans, Treu insists the teams are on the right track and are ready to face any opponents in the quarterfinals.

"Since most of players were nervous, we knew Day One would be difficult," Treu said. "But I am happy with the output of the boys as they are improving game after game. It is good we are starting to find our footing.

"If we continue playing like this, I am confident at least two of our teams will make it to the knock-out stages. We are ready to face any opponent and defend the title."

The South African was also proud of the sterling displays of  Ooko Churchill, Shaban Ahmed and Leonard Mugaisi. "Ooko, Ahmed and Mugaisi have been very impressive and that shows we have a lot of talent. We just need to give them time and opportunity to prove themselves."