Kenya Lionesses had to come from behind to claim a narrow win over China in their 2024 Challenger Series opener.
Kenya Lionesses started their 2024 Challenger Series with a narrow 17-14 win over China in Dubai on Friday.
The Lionesses had to do it all in the second half after going down 5-0 after Chen Keyi’s unconverted try at halftime, with Grace Okulu leading the comeback with a try of her own for a 5-5 tie shortly after the break.
20:04 - 09.01.2024
RUGBY Where to watch Shujaa's opening Challenger Series leg in Dubai
Find out where and how to catch Kenya's Shujaa and Lionesses in action at the Dubai Challenger Series.
It was soon 12-7 to China when Liu Xiaoqian went over with Gu Yaoyao converting but the Lionesses responded with a try from Stella Wafula.
Wafula added the second for Kenya after gaining possession off a maul before sprinting to the try line which was converted to hand Kenya the initiative.
16:07 - 08.01.2024
RUGBY Lionesses aim for the stars in Dubai at opening HSBC Sevens Challenger leg
Just like Shujaa, the Lionesses will be seeking qualification to the World Series by doing as well as they can in the Challenger Series which commences this weekend in Dubai.
Judith Okumu ensured the East Africans claimed the win with a late try to ensure it was a winning start.
It was not a vintage performance from the Lionesses who will need an improved display against the Czech Republic to stay in the hunt for a top place in the group in their second fixture of the day.