The Blitzboks progressed to the Cup final of the Sydney Sevens after securing a convincing 26-12 win over Australia on Sunday. CRAIG LEWIS reports.

The Springbok Sevens endured a disappointing end to day one when they suffered a narrow defeat to England, but they bounced back to clinch a comfortable 21-10 win over the USA in their early quarter-final on Sunday. 

Besides that positive result, South Africa would also have taken note of the outcome of the second quarter-final of the day, which saw nearest rivals Fiji suffer a 24-21 loss to New Zealand.

It left them with plenty to play for heading into their semi-final against Australia, and they made an ideal start to the clash when some beautiful interpassing finally ended with Kwagga Smith cantering over under the posts.

There was a perfect riposte from Australia as young Tim Anstee showed a clean pair of heels to dart over for a try soon after, but the Blitzboks struck a timely blow just before the break when Seabelo Senatla dotted down to make it 12-5 at the break.

In the second half, two cynical pieces of play from Australia saw two yellow cards dished out, and Chris Dry duly extended the Blitzboks' lead with a try when they had a two-man advantage, while Smith went over to secure his brace soon after.

Simon Kennewel did score a late consolation try for Australia, but it will be the Blitzboks who face a rematch against England in the Cup final, which kicks off at 09.46 (SA time).

WATCH: Blitzboks vs Australia (2017 Sydney Sevens)

Photo: Mark Kolbe/World Rugby