The Saffas didn’t get everything their own way this weekend, with Australia beating them 19-14 in the final of the London sevens at Twickenham on Sunday. This was Australia’s first sevens title since Brisbane in 2002, and how well they did it.
They beat sevens royalty Fiji 29-28 in the quarters and Argentina 26-14 in the semi; all after walloping England 38-5, Russia 47-0, and Scotland 43-17 on day 1. In short, they were awesome. While averaging just 21 years a man.
Sills – who’s rapidly filling out – had been razor sharp all tournament racking up 9 tries before hobbling through the semi and then getting knocked silly in the opening minute of the final. Karauhai-Henry took on his duties as gas man and opened up the score with scorching run down the sideline.
Vanderglass ruled the air at kick off, the scrum and then the breakdown as well. Fittingly he scored one of the G&G’s other two tries through some sterling support work.
But the man of the match, and most probably man of the tournament was Aussie Captain James Stannard. His ability to sniff a half gap and then put someone through another was outstanding. This ability he demonstrated by scoring a try that left 3 defenders trying to tackle each other as he dotted down.
But this was nothing compared to the try saver he pulled off with 43 seconds left on the clock. Saffa flyer Cecil Afrika was away with only the sweeper Stannard to stop him. The Aussie skipper showed the flyer the outside and then somehow hauled the South African down and into touch 30cm before the try line. Unbelievable.
Australian 7’s performances over the years hadn’t inspired following but this squad looked impressive, being able to match everyone they cam across for power and pace, but then also showing great patience and ability on the ball. Well worth keeping an eye on these boys.
