New Zealand put the sword to Blitzboks in Hong Kong

The Blitzboks suffered a devastating 7-12 defeat to New Zealand in their second Pool D clash at the Hong Kong Sevens on Saturday.

After earning a hard-fought win over Ireland in their opening clash, Sandile Ngcobo's charges got off to a bad start as early as the third minute.

Leroy Carter burst past captain Siviwe Soyizwapi with venomous pace to put the All Blacks Sevens outfit ahead, while Akuila Rokolisoa added two extra points from the conversion.

But the spirited Blitzboks hit back before the half-time whistle through Mfundo Ndhlovu as Ricardo Duarttee ensured they went into the break level on points (7-7) with the conversion.

New Zealand started the second stanza with the same energy and intent as to how they began the epic clash, and they were rewarded almost immediately.

Three minutes into the second-half, Cody Vai snatched the winning try as New Zealand held on for the vital three points to maintain their commanding lead in Pool D.

Ireland claimed a 26-14 over Kenya and now have a superior points difference than SA heading into the final Pool match later on Saturday.

Blitzboks face Kenya at 09:25 and will need a victory to advance to the quarter-finals.

Meanwhile, the Irish entertain New Zealand in the next match immediately at 09:49.

Pace, power and panache from @nz_sevens #HSBC7s | #HK7s pic.twitter.com/B3at62IWNY

A good effort in a tight second pool game, but it finishes 12-7 to NZ. Crucial clash against Kenya coming up at 09h25 ??#BlitzIgnite