South Africa will meet New Zealand in the gold medal match at the Commonwealth Games Sevens after defeating Samoa 35-7 on Sunday.

The Blitzboks benefited from some ill-discipline from the islanders to run in five tries and set up a dream final between the world's two best sevens sides.

Neil Powell's side found themselves trailing early on against the Samoans before hitting their straps and running in some sumptuous tries. Their first was a beautifully executed set-piece move as they worked the ball across the park and back again for Cornal Hendricks to dot down under the posts.

Samoa's Afa Aiono saw yellow shortly after for a petulant kick, before Lio Lolo was also sent from the field for a cynical infringement at ruck time. Hendricks would grab his second to put South Africa 14-7 up as Samoa finished the half with just five players on the pitch.

Chris Dry grabbed South Africa's third at the start of the second half after more fine work from Hendricks, before Cecil Afrika put the result beyond doubt after captain Kyle Brown showed great technique to turn the ball over at the breakdown. Replacement Werner Kok completed the scoring late on as the Blitzboks geared up for what looks set to be an almighty battle in the final.

Earlier, the Kiwis booked their place in the final with a 19-7 win over Australia. South Africa will be hoping to create history by becoming the first side to beat New Zealand at the Commonwealth Games, while the Kiwis will be looking to secure their fifth consecutive gold medal when they meet at 22h37, South African time.

South Africa – Tries: Cornal Hendricks (2), Chris Dry, Cecil Afrika, Werner Kok. Conversions: Branco du Preez (3), Cecil Afrika (2).
Samoa – Try: Samoa Toloa. Conversion: Alatasi Tupoa.

Photo: Carl Court/AFP Photo