South Africa turn on heat to win Dubai title

South Africa turn on heat to win Dubai title 6 December 2014

South Africa beat Australia 33-7 in the Dubai final – Photo: World Rugby/Martin Seras Lima

– Blitzboks win Emirates Dubai 7s
– Fiji lead HSBC Sevens World Series
– Draw made for round 3 in South Africa
– News access footage, rights-free photos & audio

South Africa beat Australia in a pulsating Emirates Airline Dubai Sevens final to claim the second title of the HSBC Sevens World Series.

In doing so Neil Powell’s side closed the gap on leaders Fiji, who finished third in Dubai, in the race to secure the top four places on the Series and qualify directly for the 2016 Olympic Games.

Kwagga Smith, scorer of a hat-trick in an impressive 28-0 win over New Zealand in the semi final, put in a commanding performance against Australia and was aided by wing Seabelo Senatla scoring his sixth and seventh tries of the weekend.

“We didn’t play our best in Australia but this was a fantastic event for us,” South African captain Kyle Brown said. “We’ve worked hard on our defence all day and this means a lot to all of us.”

– FULL ROUND-UP, RESULTS & REACTION >>

After round two of the HSBC Sevens World Series, Fiji have 39 Series points and an two-point lead over South Africa (37) with Australia (29) and New Zealand (28) also occupying top-four places.

– SERIES STANDINGS (after 2 rounds) >>

Pool draw made for round 3 in South Africa

Dubai champions South Africa will face Wales, USA and Kenya in Pool B on home soil in Port Elizabeth, while Argentina, Portugal and the non-core side Zimbabwe await runners-up Australia.

Series leaders Fiji play Scotland, France and Canada, with Pool D undoubtedly the toughest with Japan joining Samoa, England and New Zealand.