An improved performance from the Imbokodo was not enough as they fell to a 31-12 loss to Russia on day two of the Cape Town Sevens on Saturday. DYLAN JACK reports.

The result puts Paul Delport’s side on the brink of falling out of the tournament at the pool stages.

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It was a disappointing result which showcased that there is still plenty of room for growth for the Springbok Women’s Sevens. Despite showcasing their threat on attack, with Nadine Roos and substitute Megh Phillips standing out, the Imbokodo struggled to deal with Russia’s wings as speedster Elena Zdrokova grabbed a brace.

It took just a couple of minutes for the Imbokodo to score their first try as Roos broke through before putting Liske Lategan away to score in the corner.

However, Russia hit back soon afterwards as Alena Mikhaltsova handed off a tackle and sprinted clean through to dot down and put Russia 7-5 up. The visitors extended their lead as the pacy Zdrokova was too quick on the outside, before Baizat Khamidova muscled her way over to make it 19-5 at the break.

It was an excellent start to the second half for Paul Delport’s side as Roos once again threatened the line before putting in a perfect pass to see Megh Phillips score to make it a seven-point game. However, Zdrokova was at it again as she found space on the wing and put on the afterburners to make it a mountain to climb for the Imbokodo.

While they tried to come back into the game, it was all in vain as Daria Noritsina sealed the result with a try after the hooter.

Photo: @WomenBoks/Twitter