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The World Sevens Series is set for a dramatic conclusion on Sunday following Day One’s results in Los Angeles. Current leaders South Africa were upset by the USA that ultimately led to them missing out on the Quarter Finals. As a result the door is now open for Argentina to claim a first ever overall title.
It was a poor start for the Blitzboks, as they conceded 21 unanswered points to the Eagles before scoring a consolation try late in the tournament opener. After beating Canada by just five points, another shaky first half saw South Africa down 17-nil against New Zealand at halftime and the loss dumped them out of the top eight.
The joys of victory for the USA were quickly soured by a heavy defeat to New Zealand in their second game. They recovered to beat Canada thanks to a late try from Malacchi Esdale. It came at a cost, however, as vice-captain Joe Schroeder went down injured.
Canada were under no illusions as to the challenge of their pool and were outclassed by New Zealand in their first match of the day. Stronger efforts followed against South Africa and the USA but neither resulted in wins and the Maple Leafs will now face France in the 9th place Quarter Final.
Two tries each for Luciano González Rizzoni and Franco Rossetto led the way for Los Pumas in their blowout win over Spain. Australia came from behind to beat them in the second match, but the Argentines stretched their legs with six players touching down to beat Japan.
In order to claim the overall title, Los Pumas must win the Cup Final and hope that Australia do not win a Semi Final, which is all that is required for them to be crowned champions. Fiji are also in the running and must win the Cup Final with Australia finishing no higher than fourth.
The USA will be Fiji’s first obstacle in the Quarter Final, while Australia will take on Kenya. Argentina have drawn Samoa with in-form New Zealand to play Ireland.
Detailed results and a full schedule for Day Two can be seen here.
DAY ONE RESULTS
POOL A
Spain 7 – Argentina 52
Australia 61 – 0 Japan
Spain 0 – 33 Japan
Australia 19 – 14 Argentina
Argentina 34 – 12 Japan
Australia 54 – 0 Spain
POOL B
South Africa 7 – 21 USA
New Zealand 26 – 5 Canada
South Africa 22 – 17 Canada
New Zealand 33 – 12 USA
USA 26 – 17 Canada
New Zealand 17 – 14 South Africa
POOL C
Ireland 14 – 12 France
Fiji 28 – 12 Wales
Ireland 46 – 12 Wales
France 29 – 19 France
France 26 – 12 Wales
Fiji 21 – 7 Ireland
POOL D
England 5 – 19 Scotland
Samoa 33 – 14 Kenya
England 14 – 19 Kenya
Samoa 22 – 7 Scotland
Scotland 10 – 20 Kenya
Samoa 31 – 5 England
