Shujaa Stun Ireland in Singapore 7s opener
Shujaa began their Singapore Sevens campaign with a confident 17–7 win over Ireland, as tries from Nygel Amaitsa, Kevin Wekesa, and Patrick Odongo set them on course for a potential semi-final place in the newly formatted tournament.
Kenya Sevens national team, Shujaa, kicked off their Singapore Sevens campaign in style, overpowering Ireland 17–7 in their opening Pool B match at the Singapore National Stadium on Saturday, April 5.
The result gives Shujaa a clear path to the semi-finals in the new HSBC SVNS Series format, which skips the traditional quarterfinal stage. Kevin Wambua’s charges now need just one more win—against France at 11:00 a.m. local time - to book their place in the final four.
Despite both Kenya and Ireland already being confirmed for the promotion-relegation playoffs in Los Angeles this May, the contest was fiercely competitive. Ireland, who beat Kenya 19–14 in their previous encounter in Vancouver and finished as finalists in Singapore last year, entered the match as favourites.
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But Shujaa had other ideas.
Nygel Amaitsa opened the scoring with a brilliant show-and-go that cut through the Irish defence for the first try, which he also converted to hand Kenya a 7–0 lead. Kenya stayed on the front foot, and Kevin Wekesa powered over the line to notch Shujaa’s second try, giving the East Africans a comfortable cushion at halftime.
Kenya’s resolve was tested early in the second half when Wekesa was sent to the sin bin, reducing the team to six men. However, their discipline and defensive organisation held firm. With clever game management and pressure at the breakdown, Shujaa won key penalties that helped them regain control.
Patrick Odongo then added the exclamation mark with a trademark finish from close range, diving over for Kenya’s third try - his 18th of the series. Ireland responded with a late consolation try, but the damage had been done.
Saturday’s win was particularly special for Shujaa, returning to Singapore 3,227 days after their historic tournament victory in 2016. With momentum on their side, they now turn their attention to the decisive clash against France as they chase another shot at glory.
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