Kenya 7s concluded the opening day of the Challenger Series in Dubai on a high note, securing a 29-7 victory over neighbouring Uganda at the Sevens Stadium on Friday.

Facing Uganda, Kenya 7s once again demonstrated their swift and well-coordinated plays. Nygel Amaitsa left a significant impact by scoring on the left side, marking his second try of the tournament despite facing pressure from his marker. Although the conversion was missed, Kenya led 5-0.

Uganda responded with an overload on the left, enabling Adrian Kasito to score, and Aaron Ofoywroth's successful conversion gave Uganda a temporary 7-5 lead.

However, Kenya regained control before halftime, as Patrick Odongo's try, was converted successfully, resulting in a 12-7 advantage.

The second half witnessed Amaitsa exploiting a gap, receiving a pass from Samuel Asati, and scoring a centre-post try.

Despite missing a potential hat trick as he was bundled out of play, Festus Shiasi, coming off the bench, scored for Kenya 7s after a TMO intervention. Kevin Wekesa sealed the victory with a try in his preferred corner.

With these back-to-back wins, Kenya 7s not only showcased their dominance but also earned a well-deserved place in the quarterfinals, setting a positive tone for the remainder of the Challenger Series in Dubai.

Kenya 7s had an impressive start to the HSBC Challenger 2024 in Dubai, securing a dominant 41-0 victory over Mexico at The Sevens Stadium on Friday, January 12, 2024.

Duo Kevin Wekesa and Patrick Odongo each scored two tries, propelling Shujaa to an encouraging start in Pool C.

Wekesa found the tryline in the first and third minutes, contributing to an early 10-0 lead, despite missed conversions by Nygel Amaitsa.

Tony Omondi then converted Amaitsa's try, extending Shujaa's lead to 17-0, before Odongo scored just before halftime, bringing the score to 22-0 at the break.

The second half saw Odongo securing his second try, with Omondi converting for a 29-0 lead. Vincent Onyala and John Okoth added further tries, cushioned by an Amaitsa conversion, sealing a comprehensive victory for Shujaa.