South Africa ended a nine-year drought by winning the men’s rugby sevens final against France 26-14. The women’s final saw New Zealand defeat the United States 26-12, with the U.S. having previously upset Australia in the semifinals. These matches showcased intense competition and a shift in power dynamics in the sport.
South Africa triumphed in their home rugby sevens tournament, securing victory in the men’s final by overcoming France with a score of 26-14. This marks South Africa’s first title win on home soil in nine years. The match was tightly contested at halftime, with both teams tied at 14. However, South Africa gained momentum as France faltered, leading to two decisive tries by Shilton van Wyk and David Brits in the second half, ultimately sealing the match for the hosts.
Meanwhile, on the women’s side, New Zealand claimed the championship after defeating the United States 26-12 in the final. The U.S. had earlier upset the defending champions, Australia, in a thrilling semifinal. In the final, New Zealand took control early with strong performances and consistent scoring. Despite a promising start from the Americans, they could not maintain their lead, leading to New Zealand’s victory.
The event highlights the significance of the rugby sevens tournament within the international rugby calendar, where teams compete for points that contribute to their ranking in the World Rugby Sevens Series. South Africa’s win is particularly notable given the team’s previous struggles, making this triumph a pivotal moment for their competitive stature. Additionally, the women’s tournament showcased the emergence of the United States as a formidable force, significantly disrupting previous champions, Australia.
In summary, South Africa’s victory in the men’s rugby sevens final is a monumental achievement heralding the end of a nine-year title drought on home ground. Similarly, New Zealand’s triumph in the women’s competition underscores the shifting dynamics in women’s rugby, demonstrating the rising challenge posed by the United States. Both tournaments were marked by intense competition and exemplary performances from all teams involved, reinforcing the growing popularity and competitiveness of rugby sevens globally.
Original Source: wwos.nine.com.au
