Shujaa started their HSBC Sevens Series 2023 Dubai campaign with a 19 – 19 draw against Australia.
The match played on Saturday morning, December 1, saw Australia make comeback after trailing in the first half.
The Kenya men's rugby sevens national team dominated the first half with a 14 – 7 lead courtesy of tries from Herman Humwa and Billy Odhiambo and two convertions from Tony Omondi.
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The Aussies began the second half on the front foot after a try and convertion by Henry Paterson and Dietrich Roache.
Shujaa captain Willy Ambaka extended the lead to 19-14 with a third try however Australia levelled the game thanks to try from Maurice Longbottom making it 19 – 19.
Kenya is in Pool A together with South Africa, Australia and Britain.
Australia is the series leader and the defending champions.
In the other Pool A match, Great Britain defeated the Blitzboks 14-5 to top the group.
Kenya is positioned third with two points tied with Australia who are second and South Africa at the bottom with just a point.
Prior to their trip to Dubai, Shujaa was forced to appeal to well-wishers for monetary help, revealing that the players have gone for more than three months without pay.
The fund drive raised Ksh466,346 from 312 supporters, with 80 days left till its closure.
A number of Shujaa stars including Willy Ambaka posted links on their social media platforms requesting their fans to contribute to fund both the Dubai and Cape Town 7s legs.
Shujaa’s next match will be against South Africa at 2:20 pm East African Time (EAT).