Black Ferns Sevens go back to back in San Francisco

Jul 22 • General News, Sevens Rugby • 1525 Views • Comments Off on Black Ferns Sevens go back to back in San Francisco

The Black Ferns Sevens have made history, becoming the first team to win back to back Rugby World Cup Sevens titles, with a 29-0 victory in San Francisco, USA today.

Having been in dominant form on day one of the competition with big wins over Mexico and Ireland a thrilling semi final was in store against hosts, USA.

The Black Ferns Sevens scored first through Michaeal Blyde but were trailing 12-14 at halftime. An inspiring length of the field try from Gayle Broughton launched the comeback and secured a 26-21 victory.

Facing France in the final, Michaela Blyde opened the scoring yet again and the Black Ferns Sevens led 15-0 at half time.

Two second half tries to Blyde confirmed the victory, and secured Blyde the Player of the Final award, as she finished as the tournament’s top try scorer.

It is the Black Ferns Sevens fifth title of 2018, having won Commonwealth Games gold, and World Series victories in Kitakyushu, Langford and Paris.

New Zealand Rugby CEO Steve Tew said this World Cup victory was the icing on the cake of an already impressive year.

“What a remarkable result. The Black Ferns Sevens continue to raise the bar and this tournament is no different. Being able to witness their World Cup victory in 2013 and to see them defend that title here in San Francisco today is truly special.

“This is a group of fantastic athletes and I have no doubt that they are inspiring the next generation of players, not just in New Zealand but across the globe with their efforts on and off the field.

“On behalf of New Zealand Rugby I congratulate everyone involved in the Black Ferns Sevens campaign,” said Tew.

Semi Final
Black Ferns Sevens 26 (Michaela Blyde, Ruby Tui, Gayle Broughton, Portia Woodman tries, Tyla Nathan-Wong 3 con)
USA 21 (Naya Tapper 2, Lauren Doyle tries, Nicole Heavirland 3 con)

Final
Black Ferns Sevens 29 (Michaela Blyde 3, Portia Woodman, Tyla Nathan-Wong tries, Tyla Nathan-Wong 2 con)
France 0