Powell cautious ahead of Cup semi-final

Editor

Despite reaching the Cup semi-finals at the Las Vegas Sevens, Blitzbokke coach Neil Powell is cautious ahead of their clash with Australia.

South Africa defeated New Zealand 14-7 in their Cup quarter-final to book their showdown with Australia and Powell expects a huge tactical battle.

“Australia is always a difficult side to play because they are strong, very organised and structured," he said. 

"They will also bring a very good tactical challenge to the game. 

"However, these are the type of matches you look forward to and it is another opportunity for the players to show what they can do as we also prepare for the Olympics in August."

Seabelo Senatla scored two first half tries for the South Africans, who then delivered a huge defensive effort to restrict New Zealand to just one score in the second half.

The victory was the first time South Africa beat New Zealand  since the 2014 Port Elizabeth Sevens.

Senatla has now scored nine tries in four matches at the three-day tournament, which is the fifth stop on the World Rugby Sevens Series circuit.

The other semi-final will be contested between the USA and Fiji, who currently share a three way tie on top of the World Series standings with South Africa and New Zealand.