The Blitzboks scored five tries to hammer Russia 31-0 on day one of the London Sevens on Saturday.
South Africa started their pursuit of Fiji at the top of the series standings on a positive note at the penultimate tournament of the season. They were in complete control from beginning to end, while Russia were barely in the contest.
Dylan Sage cut through the middle of Russia’s defensive line to score in the opening minute. The conversion was unsuccessful but from the next kick-off, Russia failed to secure possession and Ryan Oosthuizen pounced to score and extend South Africa’s lead to 12-0.
With Russia opting not to employ a sweeper, Cecil Afrika exploited the tactic with two wonderful kicks in behind. The first sat up for Siviwe Soyizwapi and the second was gathered by Afrika himself as the Blitzboks went 24-0 up at the break.
Russia enjoyed a greater share of the possession in the second half, but were unable to unlock South Africa’s smothering defence.
The Blitzboks won a penalty in their own half and hacked the ball downfield. Russia tracked back well, but a risky floated pass inside the 22 was intercepted by Zain Davids, who went under the posts to secure a big win.
Blitzboks remaining fixtures (Day 1):
vs Canada (13:56)
vs Samoa (17:02)
Blitzbok captain @snymanphilip satisfied with the solid start against Russia. Next up Canada.@CastleLagerSA @FNBSA @ASICS_ZA pic.twitter.com/R6tf040awt
— Springbok Sevens (@Blitzboks) June 2, 2018
Photo: @Blitzboks/Twitter
