Much as stake for Kenya's rugby team in Hong Kong series

Kenya's hunting trip to Hong Kong' s leg of the International Rugby Board (IRB) Sevens series will be filled with mixed emotion, as the team comes up against Wales, England and the United States on Friday and Saturday.

Of importance will be two teams, the U.S. and England. The U.S. will be guided by coach Mike Friday, a man who is honored for helping Kenya finish fourth at the 2012-13 season.

On the other hand, England is responsible for introducing the sport to Kenya.

But for many Kenyan fans when their team clashes with the two old enemies in Hong Kong, like the first time you beat your father in a sporting contest, the moment of joy will be tempered by a sudden, heartbreaking realization that the team and coach they have revered all these years actually has weaknesses.

"It will always be hard to play against the U.S., with Friday as the coach. However, we are working hard to ensure the boys are mentally and tactically ready to deliver," Kenya coach Felix Ochieng said in Nairobi on Thursday.

"USA and England are serious contenders and we have something to prove to them, if not their coaches. It is this inspiration the players will carry to the pitch in Hong Kong, you'll see the passion and commitment," Ochieng added.

Two seasons ago, Ochieng was the assistant coach under Mike Friday. A lot has happened since the two parted ways and their reunification, albeit on the either ends of the dugout in Hong Kong will leave each man with emotions.

"Friday was the boss. But I am here now. I want the best for Kenya, and he will be focused on U.S. That will be it. Then there is England and Wales to play against. The important thing is to qualify for the main cup from the group," he added.

Kenya is the lowest ranked team in the group on position 12 with 29 points, Wales are just one place above them on with 32 points. USA are seventh with 51 points while England are fifth with 68 points.

Captain Andrew Amonde is however keen to remind his squad, it is a match that any other.

"We will play USA as a team and not Friday, but it will be an exciting match. They have a good team at the moment and we expect them to give us stiff competition. But our aim is to perform better," he said.

Kenya will also look on veteran Humfrey Khayange, Lavin Asego, Collins Injera to propel it to victory. Endite