The national rugby sevens team,Shujaa, lost 19-17 to South Africa in a 9th place play off to finish 10th at the 5th stop of the World Rugby Sevens Circuit in Hong Kong .
Despite an inspiring start, Shujaa’s hopes of making it to the main cup quarters had suffered a set back after losing to Great Britain and France in the group stages hence being relegated to the 9th place semi final where they beat USA 17-10 to set up a 9th place play off against South Africa.
Shilton van Wyk gave South Africa an early lead. Gino Cupido extended South Africa’s lead to 12-0 with a well taken second try.
Kenya responded with Samuel Asati setting up Nygel Amaitsa for a converted try to cut the deficit to 12-7.
Moments later, Amaitsa executed a well-placed grabber kick, chased it down, and scored to tie the game at 12-12 before halftime.
In the second half Shujaa turned tables taking the lead through Patrick Odongo.
However, South Africa fought back, with Siviwe Soyizwapi scoring a crucial try to edge ahead 19-17.
Kenya had one last chance with 30 seconds remaining, but a handling error denied them possession, allowing South Africa to clear their lines and secure the win.
Kenya remains 9th on the 12-team standings ahead of the final round of the 6 leg circuit In Singapore next weekend.And with the top 8 teams having already been confirmed Shujaa is set to play in the relegation and promotion play off to secure their HSBC Sevens world circuit status next season.
Four bottom placed teams will face four top sides from the challenger series in the play off that will be held in May in Los Angeles,USA.
Argentina clinched the main cup after defeating France 12-7 in the final.
After five rounds Argentina leads the series with 88 points,12 ahead of second placed Fiji.Spain and South Africa are ranked third and fourth with 74 and 66 points respectively.