Morans fall short in Africa 7s bronze match

The match started on a high note for the Morans. Chrisant Ojwang opened the scoring with a powerful run that resulted in the first try. Dennis Abukuse followed soon after, extending the lead to 10-0.

Jackson Siketi, who would later be named Most Promising Young Player of the Tournament, added a clean conversion to take the tally to 12-0, showcasing the Morans’ early dominance.

But Zimbabwe responded strongly in the second half. A quick try narrowed the gap, before Abukuse struck again to make it 19-7, seemingly securing the bronze for Kenya.

However, the southern Africans refused to give in. A center-post try and successful conversion brought them within five points, setting the stage for a tense finish. With just seconds left, Kenya’s defense faltered.

Zimbabwe capitalised, slicing through to score under the posts and converting to snatch victory in the dying moments, 21-19.

Earlier in the tournament, the Morans had thrilled fans with a 43-12 demolition of Nigeria in the quarterfinals. Hopes were high, but a narrow 14-12 defeat to Madagascar in the semi-finals shocked supporters, cutting short Kenya’s dream of reaching the final.

Despite the disappointment, there were positives. This fourth-place finish marked an improvement from last year’s sixth. Additionally, Siketi’s individual brilliance was recognized with a tournament award, signaling a bright future.

South Africa’s Blitzboks were crowned champions after defeating Madagascar 28-12 in the final, while defending champions Uganda took fifth place with a 24-5 win over Zambia.

The results of the tournament now means Madagascar and South Africa have both earned automatic qualification for the 2026 Rugby World Cup Sevens.