Kenya Sevens, also known as Shujaa, suffered a heart-wrenching loss to Fiji at the Perth 7s, despite leading 14-7 at halftime. The 21-14 defeat in their second match of the HSBC SVNS tournament has left fans disappointed yet hopeful as they prepare for their next encounter against Uruguay on Saturday, January 25, at 7:00 am.
Here’s our day one score card. Looking forward to a better day 2.#Shujaa #MpesaPowersKenya7s #SafaricomRugby #SportpesaNaShujaa pic.twitter.com/DqgDQ2lefb
— Shujaa (@KenyaSevens) January 24, 2025
Both Kenya sevens and Fiji entered the game eager to bounce back after opening losses. Shujaa had fallen 29-14 to New Zealand, while Fiji narrowly lost 24-17 to Uruguay. Despite a nervy start that saw Patrick Odongo knock on deep in Fiji’s territory, Kenya quickly found their footing.
The turning point came when Dennis Abukuse stepped out on the sideline, earning Kenya a lineout. Shujaa executed their set piece brilliantly, creating an opportunity for Nygel Amaitsa to score the first try. Although the referee initially hesitated, the try was eventually awarded, sending the Kenyan fans into celebratory cheers. Amaitsa’s successful conversion gave Kenya an early 7-0 lead.
The momentum stayed with kenya sevens, and Fiji’s mistakes handed Kenya further opportunities. From a scrum, Samuel Asati displayed impressive individual skill, exploiting the blind side to score Kenya’s second try. Amaitsa’s accuracy with the boot extended the lead to 14-0, putting Kenya firmly in control.
Fiji, however, responded just before halftime with a try from Joji Nasova, converted by Villaime Satala. Despite dominating possession towards the end of the half, Kenya could not add to their tally. A blow came when captain George Ooro was forced off the pitch due to injury, leaving Shujaa vulnerable.
The final moments of #Kenya7s vs Fiji.
Look at what Onyala is showing at the end.
Keep it. #RugbyKE pic.twitter.com/JZvfDwAGEH— MaToKe (@Lm_matoke) January 24, 2025
Fiji came into the second half determined to overturn their seven-point deficit. Their characteristic flair and skill were on full display as Joseva Talacolo finished off a well-coordinated series of passes to level the scores at 14-14. The atmosphere at HBF Park was electric, with Kenyan fans rallying behind their team in hopes of a comeback.
A critical turning point came when a Kenyan knock-on handed Fiji a scrum deep in their territory. Fiji capitalized, with Joji Nasova scoring his second try of the match. The successful conversion gave Fiji the lead for the first time, 21-14, putting Kenya under immense pressure.
Kenya sevens’s fighting spirit was evident as they fought back tirelessly. Nygel Amaitsa came tantalizingly close to crossing the try line again but lacked the crucial support needed to finish the play. A late scrum gave Kenya a glimmer of hope, but Fiji’s game management shone through as they tactically kicked the ball into touch to secure the win.
ALSO READ:Kenya Sevens Fall to New Zealand in Perth 7s Opener, Eyes on Fiji Next
Key Moments That Defined the Game
- Amaitsa’s Early Brilliance: Nygel Amaitsa’s opening try and consistent conversions put Kenya in a commanding position in the first half.
- Captain’s Injury: George Ooro’s premature exit left a leadership void that Fiji exploited in the second half.
- Nasova’s Dominance: Joji Nasova’s two tries were pivotal in Fiji’s comeback, showcasing their ability to capitalize on Kenya’s mistakes.
- Game Management: Fiji’s tactical awareness in the closing moments ensured their narrow victory.
Despite the loss, Kenya Sevens remain determined as they prepare to face Uruguay on Saturday. The South Americans have been unbeaten in the pool, securing wins over Fiji (24-17) and New Zealand (17-14). Shujaa will need to regroup, tighten their defense, and capitalize on scoring opportunities to stand a chance against the in-form Uruguayans.
Takeaways from the Game
Kenya’s performance against Fiji highlighted both strengths and weaknesses:
- Strengths:
- Impressive First Half: Kenya showed discipline, skill, and resilience in the opening half, taking a deserved lead.
- Emerging Talent: Players like Amaitsa and Asati proved their worth with stellar individual performances.
- Weaknesses:
- Second-Half Slump: Shujaa’s inability to maintain intensity allowed Fiji to claw back and dominate.
- Lack of Support Play: Critical moments in attack lacked the necessary support, costing Kenya potential tries.
Kenyan fans, both at HBF Park and online, have praised Shujaa’s effort despite the loss. Many believe the team has the potential to bounce back against Uruguay and possibly advance in the tournament. Social media has been abuzz with messages of encouragement, with fans urging the players to remain focused and fight until the end.
Facing an unbeaten Uruguay will be no small task. To turn their fortunes around, Shujaa must:
- Strengthen Defense: Closing gaps and improving communication will be key to stopping Uruguay’s dynamic attack.
- Capitalize on Possession: Kenya dominated possession in the first half against Fiji but failed to convert it into enough points. They must make every opportunity count.
- Avoid Costly Errors: Reducing knock-ons and turnovers will prevent gifting Uruguay unnecessary chances.
- Maintain Consistency: Shujaa must sustain their intensity throughout the entire game, avoiding second-half slumps.
Kenya Sevens’ 21-14 loss to Fiji at the Perth 7s was a tale of two halves. While Shujaa impressed in the opening period, their second-half struggles allowed Fiji to snatch victory. As they prepare to face Uruguay, the focus will be on learning from their mistakes and delivering a complete performance.
Shujaa still has a chance to shine in the tournament, and with the unwavering support of their fans, they can bounce back stronger. The next match is crucial, and all eyes will be on Kenya as they aim to turn things around in Perth. Will Shujaa rise to the challenge and reignite their campaign? Time will tell.
