World Sevens Series: Irish women battle for bronze as men bow out

Ireland women's Sevens teams will have to settle for a Bronze Final encounter with the USA after losing out to hosts New Zealand in their Cup semi-final at the World Sevens Series in Cape Town.

The Kiwis ran out 14-7 winners but were made work for their final spot by the Irish women, who pegged back a 14-0 deficit to leave just a score between the sides at the end.

Early tries from New Zealand's Tyla Nathan-Wong, in the opening minute, and Michaela Blyde four minutes later had the Irish on the back foot.

But another touchdown from the in-form Amee-Leigh Murphy-Crowe was converted by the boot of Lucy Mulhall in the 12th minute to keep the hosts honest.

Alas, the tying score never materialised which leaves Ireland facing America for bronze while New Zealand will contest the overall final with Australia.

Ireland men's team saw off Kenya 19-14 in the ninth-place quarter-final, but made their exit from the tournament following a hard-fought 19-12 loss to France.