The All Blacks Sevens team suffered a setback in their pursuit of the SVNS World title, falling short in the Bordeaux final against France. Despite a valiant effort, the All Blacks Sevens couldn't secure the victory, with the home crowd's support proving a significant factor. The match was a tight affair, with France ultimately prevailing 14-5, ending a 21-year wait for a local Cup title.
Tomasi Cama, a seasoned player and coach, led the All Blacks Sevens to their first final since the Dubai Sevens in November. However, the team's efforts were not enough to overcome the host nation's determination. Jayden Keelan, a standout performer, showcased his versatility, covering both wings and playmaker duties, but it wasn't enough to secure the win.
The All Blacks Sevens' heavy tackle count and strategic plays, such as Keelan's chip and chase, couldn't overcome France's resilience. The home team's penalty count and the yellow card for Akuila Rokolisoa further contributed to their advantage. Célian Pouzelgues' late try sealed the deal for France, who had previously won only 11 times in 83 SVNS meetings.
This defeat highlights the team's struggle with tight tussles this season, but their pool play win against France remains a bright spot. The All Blacks Sevens' ability to rally from a 21-12 deficit is a testament to their resilience. Rob Rush's dummy and Solo's sprint showcased their offensive prowess, but it wasn't enough to secure the title.
In other SVNS news, Australia claimed the French Sevens title for the first time, beating the Black Ferns Sevens 26-19 in the final. The Black Ferns Sevens, despite their injuries and setbacks, demonstrated their skill and determination, with Risi Pouri-Lane's calmness under pressure being a key factor in their semi-final win against Canada. The team's overall success in the SVNS era, including 48 Cup final appearances and 393 wins, underscores their dominance in the sport.
The All Blacks Sevens' performance in Bordeaux serves as a reminder of the challenges they face in the Sevens rugby landscape. Their ability to adapt and overcome setbacks will be crucial in their future endeavors.
