Australia delivered a statement to the rugby sevens world after completing a remarkable men’s and women’s double at the HSBC SVNS World Championship tournament in Valladolid, Spain, capping off a thrilling weekend with two championship trophies.
The Australian women showed the heart of champions by bouncing back from a surprising pool-stage defeat to the United States. When the two sides met again in the final, Australia produced a completely different performance, dominating the contest to secure a convincing 27-14 victory.
Faith Nathan and Player of the Final Heidi Dennis each crossed the try line twice as the Australians avenged their earlier defeat in style. The victory not only secured the Valladolid title but also propelled Australia above New Zealand to the top of the HSBC SVNS World Championship standings.
Earlier on finals day, Australia had already sent shockwaves through the tournament by staging a dramatic comeback victory against defending powerhouse New Zealand in the semi-finals. Their resilience and attacking brilliance proved too much for every opponent standing in their path.
New Zealand recovered from their semi-final disappointment to claim third place. Inspired by a sensational five-try performance from Kelsey Teneti, the Black Ferns Sevens overwhelmed Canada 50-14 in a commanding display. Despite missing out on the title, New Zealand, Australia and the USA all secured their places in next season’s main HSBC SVNS Series.
The men’s competition produced another unforgettable chapter in Australia’s golden weekend.
Facing South Africa in the final, the Australians found themselves staring at defeat after falling behind 14-0 early in the match. The Blitzboks appeared in complete control, but Australia refused to surrender.
James Turner and Ethan McFarland sparked the comeback before halftime, bringing Australia back into contention. In the second half, Ben Dowling and Player of the Final Henry Hutchison completed the turnaround, helping Australia build an advantage South Africa could never fully erase.
Despite a late rally led by Gino Cupido, South Africa fell short as Australia secured a thrilling 26-19 victory and their first HSBC SVNS title of the season.
The triumph was especially significant for Hutchison, who believes the team is finally finding its rhythm at the perfect time.
Meanwhile, Argentina continued their impressive late-season form by defeating Fiji 28-17 to secure third place and strengthen their position among the world’s elite sevens nations.
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP STANDINGS AFTER VALLADOLID
Women
Australia – 38 points
New Zealand – 36 points
USA – 30 points
Men
South Africa – 38 points
Argentina – 34 points
Australia – 30 points
With silverware secured in both competitions, Australia now turns its attention to one final challenge. The HSBC SVNS World Championship Series heads to Bordeaux this weekend, where the season’s ultimate battle awaits.
Momentum is firmly on Australia’s side, but with South Africa, Argentina, New Zealand, Fiji and the USA all chasing glory, the race for world championship honours remains wide open.
After conquering Valladolid, Australia has proven it can beat anyone. The question now is whether the green and gold can finish the job one last time in Bordeaux and complete a dream ending to an unforgettable sevens season.
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| RUGBY @ TIGERS SUPER SPORTS |
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