Kenyans cheer on the Shujaa team in Australia. The team had a better performance compared to the Dubai Sevens. [Photo/HSBC]
Kenya’s campaign at the at the third round of the HSBC Sevens World Series came to an end without any trophy, after losing 24-5 against a polished Fiji side.
Shujaa had disappointing start when they lost their opening match 7-5 against Argentina, and went on to win their remaining two fixtures to qualify for the main cup quarters.
The innocent Simiyu-led charges then won their two matches, downing France 17-14 and wrapping it up with a 26-12 victory over Wales.
They then booked a place in the main cup quarters against perennial rivals South Africa, who skillfully beat them 17-0, in a match they showed the defensive prowess.
They were then relegated to play in the 5th place playoff semifinal, coming up against crowd favorite Fijians.
During the match, Jerry Tuwai drew first blood for the Fiji with typical flair.It wasn't an archetypal Fijian performance but second half tries to Alosio Naduva and Joshua Vakurunabili sealed the result before a late Kenyan consolation try.
Kenya will now shift their focus to the Hamilton leg, and will be pleased to have progressed to the main Cup quarters.
Kenyans took to social media to air their opinion on the team's performance, with some saying it was a good performance from the Dubai leg where Kenya performed dismally.