South Africa thumped Australia 25-5 to set up a semi-final clash against France at the Cape Town Sevens. JON CARDINELLI reports.

The Blitzboks needed to make an early statement after an indifferent showing on day one. The performance against Australia did exactly that.

South Africa's defence and effort at the breakdown was first rate. And when they received the opportunity to score, they made it count.

Australia tested the Blitzboks early on, and breached the hosts' defence through James Stannard. Crucially, the Blitzboks' maintained their composure and finished the half with a significant 15-5 lead.

Justin Geduld, Seabelo Senatla and Phillip Snyman all scored during that period. And yet each try was the product of excellent team work.

Rosco Speckman's decision-making and handling was especially impressive. Captain Kyle Brown contributed with some important turnovers at the breakdown.

The Blitzboks maintained their effort into the second half. Juan de Jongh exposed some weak defence by Australia to get on the scoresheet, and then a long-range try by Kwagga Smith put the result beyond doubt.

Earlier in the day, France shocked Fiji, who were so impressive on day one, to book their place in the Cup semi-finals. France will now play South Africa for a place in the final.

CUP SEMI-FINAL FIXTURES
16:34: France vs South Africa
16:56: Argentina vs Kenya

Cape Town Sevens fixtures and results

Photo: Carl Fourie/Gallo Images