Kenya 7's Rugby team also known as Shujaa went off to a rough start to their Olympic campaign after losing their opener match against USA, 19-14. The Kenyan squad came fully prepared with the likes of Injera and Ambaka in the starting lineup, Skipper Amonde starting on the bench.
The Americans went quick and drew first blood when speedster Carlin Isles went past the Kenyan defense line, scoring a converted try. Seasoned skipper, Madison Hughes added another try making it 12-0.
Just before the half time whistle, veteran Collins Injera had Shujaa on the comeback trail after scoring a converted try that penned the scores at 12-7. At the second half start, Oluoch came in for Billy Odhiambo who had a rather slow paced start to the game. Oluoch on coming in didn't hesitate and quickly made his presence known after scoring a converted try that finally had the Kenyans in the lead, 12-14. Willy Ambaka was about to seal the deal but after a thorough TMO check, his try was ruled out giving the Americans more hope.
A penalty gave the Americans a srum in the dying moments and Hughes yet again broke out the pack diving into the try box to make it 19-14 after a conversion from Steve Tomasin. It was a bitter pill for head Coach Simiyu and his boys to swallow but for USA Coach Mark Friday, excitement and relief couldn't remain hidden. “I am very happy to have the bragging rights of having beaten Kenya, but I also want them to do well so I will enjoy the win but praying that they do well in the next match,” Friday said.
Shujaa will remain positive in their campaign and will be facing South Africa in their next match at exactly 1p.m Today.