NAIROBI, Kenya, September 29- Welsh Warriors recovered from three tries down to stun Argentina 24-17 to lift the Safaricom Safari 7s title at Kasarani Stadium as home teams failed to spark in the domestic showpiece.
In a tournament overshadowed by the axing of eight regulars from the three Kenyan teams fielded for the annual event by Kenya Rugby Union, deposed champions, Shujaa, restored some pride after edging Auckland Metro 17-14 in the Plate finals.
Favourites Shujaa fell to 29-21 to Western Province while the third local side, Simba Saba were overcome by eventual winners, Welsh Warriors 19-12 in the Main Cup semis as Moran failed to progress past the first day on Saturday.
Shujaa that comprised of national 7s skipper Andrew Amonde, Homeboyz’s Humphrey Mulama, Quins’ Max Theuri, Michael Wanjala and Tony Onyango went on to eliminate fellow Simba 17-14 to book a Plate final with the Auckland Metro.
Fabian Olando, Michael Wanjala and youngster Bush Mwale grounded a try each to send Auckland home but head coach Paul Treu was left with a lot to ponder ahead of the start of the 2014-15 HSBC Sevens World Series in Australia.
Without seasoned players led by celebrated vice-captain and record Kenya international try scorer, Collins Injera, Dennis Ombachi, Horace Otieno, Dan Sikuta, Strathmore Leos Billy Odhiambo, Fly-half Biko Adema, Lunch Bar Quins’ Patrice Agunda, Tony Awour, Michael Wanjala and Eden Agero who were axed after protesting against performance based contracts, the local sides lacked bite.
Debutants Germany beat South African side Golden Sharks 26-21 to win the Bowl while another South African team Golden Lions settled for Shield after edging out Uganda 26-14.
Third place went to Samurai after registering a 31-26 victory over Western Province.
The Kenya Lioness hammered Chicago Sirens 26-14 to win the inaugural women’s tournament.
