Australia 12 defeated by USA 14  

 The Australian Women’s Sevens fell to the USA in their opening match on day two.  

Shanri Williams opened up the scoring for Australia after pressuring the USA defence in the opening minutes of the match, and running in herself.  

 The Americans were buoyed by their first half showing and won the ball back from the kick-off. However, Australia’s defence held strong and earned a turnover which saw Demi Hayes turn the defence into attack, and run 80 meters to extend the lead for the Australians.   

America was quick to retaliate with Cheta Emba finding a hole in the Australian defence, before a loose pass saw Abby Gustaitis find her way under the posts and securing the win for USA.  

The result placed the USA at the top of Pool C with Australia following in second position.  

Australia 12 defeated by Fiji 14 

A thunderstorm saw Australia’s second match against Fiji delayed with the wetter conditions ultimately favouring Fiji as Australia bowed out of medal contention.  

Fiji struck first in the match as they denied Australia possession of the ball. Two fast back-to-back tries saw Alowesi Nakoci and Ana Maria Naimai cross to give the Fijians an early lead.    

However, a poor defensive effort saw Australia capitalise on a yellow card, with Faith Nathan breaking the defence to score moments before the break.  

Poor decision making again saw Australia on the backfoot in the second half. An unrelenting attack finally saw Charlotte Caslick break the Fijian defence. However, Fiji then retained possession to wind down the clock and secure their place in the semi-final. 

Australian Women’s Sevens Head Coach John Manenti said, “It’s really disappointing for the girls, they’ve worked so hard for a long time, and this isn’t a return on the investment which they have put in.  

“I’m devastated for them,” Manenti reinforced.  

“It’s a game of inches, and a few of those little opportunities didn’t go our way, or we missed opportunities when we needed to take them.  

“We played with great spirit, we have defended for long periods and did well, but ultimately a few misses in defence was the difference between a win and loss.  

“I’m incredibly proud of how hard the girls fought. They played with a lot of courage, we have a young group, and I know a lot of them will be better for this in the long run.  

“There’s two games tomorrow which we will have a lot to improve on, as well as finish in a way which we are proud of.”