KIWIS TOO STRONG ALL BLANKS, AUSSIE IN TRANS- TASMAN CLASH
6-Feb-2010 03:31 PM

WELLINGTON sevens tournament hosts, New Zealand overcame a strong and determined South African outfit to win its last pool game in a tantalizing game of sevens rugby.

With the huge crowd cheering their home side on, the All blacks went into first gear in the first few minutes of play to score their first try through Sherwin Stowers and take the lead at 7-0.

Not giving up, the Paul Treu coached side stormed back with relentless attack and aggressive defence to score a good try in the far corner and added the conversion to tie things up.

The fiery Boks boosted by their try gave it all their best in the dying minutes of the first half and attacked New Zealand with all they had which kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

Both teams went to the sidelines for a well earned two minute break tied at 7 a piece.

The second half started much like the first with great attacking skills and defensive strategies from both sides which in many people’s view was somewhat similar to that of a final.

The All Blacks after continuous pressure and simple mistakes from the Boks gave them the advantage and scoring through Stowers who dotted down the line to score his second try in the game and giving New Zealand a handy lead.

However South Africa was not to be outdone with as they continued to apply pressure with the hope of getting one back and keeping their undefeated run intact however great defence saw them stumble to the aggressive Men in Black outfit.

Succumbing to the added New Zealand pressure led to Ben Sooners diving in for the last try and sealing a memorable victory for the hosts as they advanced to the Quarter final stages and face off with Trans-Tasman rivals, Australia today.

South Africa on the other hand will have a huge mountain to climb as they take on the might of the Flying Fijians in the last game of the Cup quarter finals.

The second quarter final match will see Samoa take on Kenya in the while the third cup quarter final will see the ever improving Canadian side take on tournament title holders, England.


By SOWANI KOROI