Blitzboks return to top of Sevens Series log, set up blockbuster finale

The Blitzboks may have only finished fifth at the London Sevens this weekend, but that was still enough to see them return to the top of the World Rugby Sevens Series standings. 

Argentina, who had been top ahead of the weekend, finished a lowly ninth.

One tournament of the 2022 World Series remains, with South Africa in first position, followed by Australia – who won the tournament at Twickenham. 

For head coach Neil Powell, however, this was another frustrating weekend that saw his side win five of the six matches, but fall to Australia in the quarter-finals.  

“There is frustration, especially after day one where we played well,” said Powell. 

“To put away a very competitive Argentina side in the first game, then outplay Ireland in the second game and beat a charged-up Kenya was rewarding. 

“We lost concentration against Australia at crucial times and that cost us, basically. The players need to understand the big moments in a game and how to play those correctly. If you don't, like we did today, you will not be successful. 

“We made two such mistakes against Australia and it cost us 14 points, and ultimately the game. We need to tell the players where they made mistakes, if not, they will not learn from those. 

“We had a tough tour and it started off badly with Selvyn Davids ruled on the morning of our departure to France, but apart from that, we also need to look at ourselves and why we are making mistakes when under pressure.” 

Powell said the defeat against Australia was unfortunate, but also showed the comeback effort from the team: “We won five and lost one, as did Australia, who won the tournament. The margin at this level is so small. We made two mistakes in six matches and finished fifth.” 

The 13 points gained from