Shujaa edge closer to promotion after coasting past Chile in Madrid Grand Final

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Shujaa edge closer to promotion after coasting past Chile in Madrid Grand Final

Mark Kinyanjui 21:07 - 01.06.2024

Shujaa claim crucial win over Chile to return to winning ways following a narrow Spain loss.

The Kenya national men's sevens team, Shujaa, delivered a commanding performance as they returned to winning ways in their last match of Pool B, dismantling Chile 36-7 in the ongoing Grand Final in Madrid on Saturday.

This victory comes as a significant boost for the team, positioning them favorably ahead of the crucial matches on Sunday.

Shujaa had kicked off their campaign on a strong note, defeating Samoa 19-10. However, their momentum was briefly halted with a narrow 10-5 loss to Spain in their second encounter.

Entering the match against Chile, the Kenyan side was well aware that nothing short of a win would suffice, and they rose to the occasion spectacularly.

Inspired by the dynamic play of John Okoth, Shujaa wasted no time in asserting their dominance. The Kenyans started with a bang, with Okoth crossing the try line twice in quick succession. Although the conversions were missed, the early lead set the tone for the rest of the match, putting Kenya ahead 10-0.

Chile managed to respond with a well-converted try, reducing the deficit to 10-7. However, Shujaa quickly regained control with a third try from Chrisant Ojwang, successfully converted to extend their lead to 17-7 as they headed into halftime.

The second half saw Shujaa ramp up their intensity, leaving the Chileans struggling to keep pace. Samuel Asati and Vincent Onyala each scored well-converted tries, pushing the score to an unassailable 31-7. The Kenyans continued their relentless attack, sealing their victory with another try just before full-time through George Ooro, concluding the match at 36-7.

This emphatic win not only reinstated Shujaa's confidence but also placed them in a strong position for the Grand Final on Sunday. The team now knows that a victory, irrespective of the Pool A opponent they face, will secure their promotion back to the World Series at the first attempt.

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