Blitzboks claim Dubai crown

South Africa capped off a memorable Dubai Sevens tournament with a 33-7 win over Australia in the final on Saturday.

Quick out the blocks in the 28-0 semi-final victory over New Zealand, the Boks put in a strong second-half showing to take the game away from Australia and go one better than last year's tournament, where they finished runners-up.

The first half was an end-to-end affair as semi-final hat-trick hero Kwagga Smith gave the Boks the lead, only for a try from Pama Fau to level things up going into the break.

Neil Powell's team took only seconds to reclaim the lead at the start of the second half, with Philip Snyman going in for their second try. Smith then showed his ability on defence when he held up Sam Myers over the line.

A late brace from Seabelo Senatla and another from Ruhan Nel then put the result beyond doubt as the Blitzboks put the disappointment of the Gold Coast Sevens title behind them with their first title of the season.

'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. We'll enjoy tonight for sure!'

Blitzboks – Tries: Kwagga Smith, Philip Snyman, Seabelo Senatla (2), Ruhan Nel. Conversions: Branco du Preez (3), Cecil Afrika.
Australia – Try: Pama Fau. Conversion: James Stannard.

Photo: Warren Little/Getty Images