Cape Town sevens

Runners-up in the opening round of the new season in Dubai last week, New Zealand thumped Argentina 38-14 in the Cape Town final on Monday (NZ time) to go to the top of the standings.

It was a triumph which came after the team had overcome no lack of adversity during the tournament.

New Zealand were not only swept aside 22-0 by the USA in their opening pool game, they needed come-from-behind wins over two of their biggest rivals to secure their spot in the title decider.

The Blitzboks, England and USA all progress to the Cup quarter-finals unbeaten after taking three wins from three in the pool stages. South Africa face Fiji in the final eight, reigning Cape Town champions England play New Zealand, Canada face France and USA play Argentina. 

South Africa are targeting their second tournament win in as many weeks after taking glory in the opening round of the 2018 world series in Dubai last weekend. 

The Manu failed to make the cup quarter finals in the opening leg of the new World Series campaign, losing to England and New Zealand in pool play and then the United States in the playoff for ninth place.

Interim head coach Stephen Betham said the players showed in glimpses what they are capable off but struggled with consistency and combinations and general fitness.

But he said that won't change their approach this weekend.