New Zealand win Gold Coast Sevens to kick off HSBC Sevens World Series defence

– New Zealand win Gold Coast Sevens
– Take early lead in HSBC Sevens World Series
– Pool draw made for Emirates Dubai Rugby Sevens

Debutant Ambrose Curtis scored two tries as New Zealand came from behind to win the 2013 Gold Coast Sevens, beating hosts Australia 40-19 in the final to get the defence of their HSBC Sevens World Series title off to a flying start.

Trailing 12-0, it looked as though New Zealand could be set for a third successive Cup final defeat at Skilled Park but Curtis (2), Tomasi Cama, David Raikuna, Waisake Naholo and Joe Webber ensured the win against a tired Australia.

– FULL ROUND-UP & REACTION >> CLICK HERE
– GOLD COAST SEVENS RESULTS >> CLICK HERE

While New Zealand toughed out a 14-5 semi-final win against improved England, the hosts were made to work hard, eventually running out 24-19 victors against South Africa thanks to a Jesse Parahi try deep into the second half of sudden-death extra time.

Fiji claimed the Plate in their first tournament under Englishman Ben Ryan, France beat Canada to the Bowl and USA overcame Portugal to win the shield.

After round one New Zealand have 22 Series points and a three-point lead over Australia (19) with England (17), South Africa (15) and Fiji (13) not far behind.

– HSBC SEVENS WORLD SERIES STANDINGS >> CLICK HERE

Pool draw made for round two in Dubai

Following the pool draw for round two of the Series, the Emirates Dubai Rugby Sevens, New Zealand head Pool A and face Kenya, France and Portugal on day one.

Gold Coast runners-up Australia will play Wales, Scotland and Spain in Pool B. England will face Fiji, Canada and USA in Pool C and South Africa face Samoa, Argentina and Russia in Pool D.

DUBAI POOLS >> CLICK HERE
DUBAI MATCH SCHEDULE >> CLICK HERE