The Blitzboks’ quest to bounce back from their disappointment in Los Angeles came to a premature end as they suffered back-to-back defeats against Argentina and Kenya to leave them playing for 13th place at the Vancouver Sevens on Sunday.
‘Panicking’ Dobbo delighted with clean sweep
Argentina claimed a 12-0 victory over the Springbok Sevens side in the decisive Pool B match. The result saw Argentina top the group, but left the Blitzboks tied with France on six points, with the French progressing due to a superior points difference.
This came after South Africa started their Canada campaign with a comeback 19-19 draw with France and a 40-12 thrashing of Japan.
The Blitzboks were deadlocked at 0-0 with Argentina at half time after dominating possession, but letting a couple of opportunities go through some poor passing. Argentina took full advantage in the second half as Marcos Moneta and German Schultz broke through South Africa’s defence to score.
Having finished third in the pool, South Africa faced Kenya in the ninth-placed semi-final. Despite making a bright start through captain Siviwe Soyizwapi’s brace, the Blitzboks struggled in the second half as Kenya came roaring back to seal a 17-12 win.
The Blitzboks will face hosts Canada in the 13th-place semi-final at 7.22pm (South Africa Time) on Sunday night.
WATCH: Kolbe robbed in Top 14 clash
Photo: Shaun Roy/BackpagePix