Blitzboks crowned kings of Dubai again

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South Africa made it an impressive four World Sevens Series titles on the spin in Dubai with a resounding victory over Ireland on Saturday.

The Springbok Sevens, who kicked off their title defence with a loss to Great Britain on Friday, outscored the Irish three tries to one in the finale for a 21-5 win to prove no team does it better in the desert than SA.

The South Africans did exceptionally well to cut off the possession for Ireland’s big men like Harry McNulty with their impressive line speed and spatial awareness on defence, while were clinical on attack.

Ricardo Duarttee, making his Blitzbok debut in Dubai, was flawless in front of the posts.

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Speedster Shilton van Wyk split Ireland open from the kick-off for a 7-0 lead to the Blitzboks inside the opening minute, before stretching their advantage after jinking his way over from close range.

Skipper Siviwe ‘Shakes’ Soyizwapi latched onto a loose pass from Ireland inside his own half for SA’s third try and 21-0 at half time.

Jack Kelly barged over in the corner late on for Ireland, but the men in green kept their composure until the final whistle to secure a first series win for Blitzbok coach Sandile Ngcobo. Earlier, New Zealand thumped the USA 32-12 in the third/fourth place playoff.

SA will now look to double up back home in the three-day Cape Town tournament, starting at Cape Town Stadium on Friday.

Photo: Twitter/@Blitzboks

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Devin Hermanus