The Springboks advanced to the quarterfinals of the IRB Sevens World Series tournament in George
despite drawing 12-all against Kenya on Friday.
The Kenyans were punished twice with yellow
cards for their persistent transgressions.
South Africa will play Fiji in the quarterfinal on Saturday, while Kenya meet the side placed second in Pool B, Australia.
Samoa, who topped Pool C, face Argentina and New Zealand play England in the quarters.
With Springbok captain Paul Delport unlikely to take part in the remainder of the tournament with an ankle injury and MJ Mentz’s eye injury also causing concern, it will take a huge effort from Paul
Treu’s side to retain the title they won last year.
Kenya drew first blood when Innocent Simiyu scored after five minutes. The Springboks were undoubtedly the better side until then with the negative Kenyans continually transgressing to unsettle the Boks’ rhythm.
Poor passes cost the South Africans but after good breaks in the second half — where they conceded an early try after trailing 5-0 at the turnover — Mzwandile Stick pulled a try back and then, right on time, he converted from touch after a good try by Deon Helberg.
It was, however, just good enough for a draw and with a superior points difference, Kenya topped the log. – Sapa