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Canada closed out their 2018-19 HSBC Sevens Series campaign on a high note, winning all three of their Day Two matches in Paris to lift the Challenge Trophy. The 9th-place finish secured their 11th overall spot for the season.
After a poor opening day that saw them drop all of their pool matches, the Canadian rebounded with a 31-12 win over Wales to start the knock-out phase. Five players touched down with a 17-0 run in the second half proving the difference.
The second match was a high-scoring affair against England that finished 41-28 in favor of Canada. Josiah Morra led the way with a hat trick, with four others adding singles. It would be the final career match for Great Britain forward James Rodwell, who announced his retirement prior to the tournament.
A 28-12 win over Ireland in the Trophy Final capped the day. Morra added another try with Mike Fuailefau, Harry Jones, and finally Adam Zaruba all touching down. Nathan Hirayama converted all four as the team celebrated their reversal in fortunes.
All eyes now turn to George Town where the North American Qualifiers for the 2020 Olympics will take place on July 6-7. With the USA having secured automatic qualification thanks to their second overall finish, Canada are now heavy favorites to book their spot in Tokyo.
