After losing to NZ by 17-5 in pool play on Wednesday, the Blitzboks hit back in style on Thursday to cause a big upset and ensure they will be playing for a medal in France.
JOHANNESBURG - South Africa are into the semi-finals of the Rugby Sevens at the Olympic Games in Paris after they eliminated top-ranked New Zealand 14-7 in the quarter-final through sheer guts and determination.
Leyds' try was especially great, as it came from a counter-attack that started from turn-over ball on the Blitzboks' try line after some sublime defence. The second half saw wave after wave of NZ attack, but the Blitzboks' defence held firm as they tackled like terriers, often forcing mistakes from the Kiwis which handed possession back to South Africa, who sealed the deal with one of their best performances of the season.
The Blitzboks, who had to replace the injured Quewin Nortje with Ronald Brown on the second day, knew they had to win by at least 21 points to make into the final eight and did just that. They were ruthless in the opening half and scored almost at will, dominating the restarts, possession and territory.
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