The Kenya Lionesses rallied from a 14-17 deficit against Japan in the Tokyo 2020 Rugby 9th place semifinal to secure a much needed 21-17 victory after the buzzer.
Grace Adhiambo was first to cross the whitewash in the first half as she cut through her defenders to score the converted try.
Moments later, the Lionesses displayed how beautiful rugby is when you get the basic skills right. They got the passes right sending the ball to scrumhalf, Janet Okello who drew in two defenders before setting up winger Sinaida Aura to go and score the Lionesses second converted try. Half time scores reading 14-0 in Kenya’s favour.
A few decision making errors by Felix Oloo’s charges presented Japan with three try scoring opportunities which they didn’t hesitate to take and eventually they took the lead. Scores now reading 14-17 in Japan’s favour.
With 30 seconds on the clock and a penalty against Kenya, Japan opted for a scrum, the Lionesses defended tooth and nail, winning the turn over and gradually making their way to Japan’s red zone. Clearing the ruck at the 15M, they sent the ball finding a determined Sheila Chajira who gave her team a go-forward moment before setting up her support Cynthia Camilla to land the winning try.
Her teammates joining in the celebration of the 21-17 victory.
They take on Canada on Saturday morning at 3:30am EAT.
Photo: Mike Lee, World Rugby
