Kenya 7s coach Kevin Wambua exudes confidence as Shujaa prepares for a challenging Pool C battle in the third leg of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series at the Perth 7s tournament.
A Battle-Ready Shujaa Eyes Top-Eight Finish
Kenya’s national rugby sevens team, Shujaa, is gearing up for an intense competition at the Perth 7s, scheduled to take place from January 24 to January 26 in Australia. Drawn into a tough Pool C alongside rugby powerhouses Fiji, Australia, and a rising Uruguay side, Shujaa aims to secure a top-eight finish amidst fierce competition.
Head coach Kevin Wambua, speaking during the team announcement, acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic about the team’s preparedness following a productive week of training. The camp, held at the Menengai Oilers’ training facility in Nakuru, focused on addressing key weaknesses and enhancing tactical execution.
“We’ve had a productive week of camp in Nakuru, where we analyzed our performances in Dubai and Cape Town and prepared for what our opposition will bring in Perth,” Wambua said.
With no easy matches in the horizon, Wambua emphasized the importance of treating every game as a final.
The Return of Key Players
Shujaa’s squad for Perth includes the return of experienced stars Vincent Onyala, Anthony Omondi, and Brian Tanga. Their leadership and skillset are expected to play a crucial role in navigating the tough group stage.
“Our goal remains to finish in the top eight. We are closely monitoring Australia and Great Britain, as they are the teams ahead of us at positions seven and six,” Wambua added, underlining the importance of consistency and execution.
The @KenyaSevens squad that will be heading out to Perth.#Shujaa #MpesaPowersKenya7s #SafaricomRugby #SportpesaNaShujaa pic.twitter.com/lQTZrzVYOr
— Kenya Rugby (@OfficialKRU) January 15, 2025
Co-captains George Ooro and Samuel Asati also shared their optimism, crediting the training camp for refining their strategies.
“Playing against the best makes you the best. Attack is an opportunity; defense is a must,” Ooro remarked. Asati echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the return of key players has provided the team with a significant morale boost.
The @KenyaSevens squad that will be heading out to Perth.#Shujaa #MpesaPowersKenya7s #SafaricomRugby #SportpesaNaShujaa pic.twitter.com/lQTZrzVYOr
— Kenya Rugby (@OfficialKRU) January 15, 2025
Shujaa’s History with Pool C Opponents
Shujaa faces familiar foes in Perth, each bringing unique challenges. Here’s a closer look at their history with Pool C opponents:
- Australia
The rivalry with Australia has been fiercely contested. In their most recent encounter at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Shujaa suffered a 21-7 defeat. However, Kenya turned the tables later that year at the Cape Town 7s, staging a thrilling 19-12 comeback victory despite being reduced to six men. This sets the stage for another gripping clash in Perth. - Fiji
Facing Fiji is always a monumental task. The Pacific Islanders, known for their flair and dominance in sevens rugby, last defeated Shujaa 31-12 at the 2023 Vancouver 7s. However, Kenya’s famous 30-7 victory in the 2016 Singapore 7s final—a win that secured their first-ever HSBC Sevens title—remains a motivational cornerstone for Shujaa as they prepare to challenge the Fijians once more. - Uruguay
Uruguay may lack the pedigree of Fiji and Australia, but they are a rising force in the HSBC Sevens Series. Recently promoted to the circuit, the South Americans have displayed tenacity and determination to avoid relegation. Their hunger for success makes them a dangerous opponent, and Shujaa will need to execute with precision to ensure a favorable outcome.
Key Players to Watch
- Vincent Onyala: The dynamic player’s return adds firepower to Shujaa’s attack, with his ability to break defensive lines and create opportunities.
- Brian Tanga: Known for his vision and playmaking, Tanga’s leadership will be instrumental in dictating the tempo against strong opposition.
- George Ooro: The co-captain’s defensive prowess and tactical awareness will be key in containing the likes of Fiji and Australia.
Strategic Goals for Perth 7s
To succeed in Pool C, Shujaa must execute a clear game plan:
- Strong Defense: Against attacking teams like Fiji and Australia, Shujaa will need to stay disciplined in their defensive structures, minimizing errors and disrupting the opposition’s rhythm.
- Maximizing Possession: Retaining possession will be critical, especially against Fiji, whose counter-attacking style can punish any turnover.
- Capitalizing on Key Moments: Converting opportunities into points will make the difference in tight games, particularly against Uruguay, where precision will be vital.
What’s at Stake
A top-eight finish in Perth would not only boost Kenya’s position in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series standings but also reaffirm their ability to compete against the world’s best. With Australia and Great Britain within reach, strong performances in Perth could significantly impact Shujaa’s overall ranking.
The Road Ahead
The Perth 7s marks the midpoint of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series, and Shujaa’s performance here could set the tone for the remainder of the season. While Pool C presents a formidable challenge, the team’s preparation, combined with the return of key players, offers hope for a successful campaign.
Fans will be eagerly watching as they takes on the giants of sevens rugby, with every match promising excitement and high stakes. Will Kenya rise to the occasion and secure a top-eight finish in Perth? All eyes will be on Australia as Shujaa battles for pride, glory, and crucial series points.
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