Gold rush on the horizon for Blitzboks

Blitzbok captain Philip Snyman poses with the Paris Sevens trophy alongside the captains of Japan, Canada and Scotland at the Arc de Triomphe. Photo: @WorldRugby7s on Twitter

Blitzbok captain Philip Snyman poses with the Paris Sevens trophy alongside the captains of Japan, Canada and Scotland at the Arc de Triomphe. Photo: @WorldRugby7s on Twitter

Published May 13, 2017

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DURBAN – After forging ahead in the Sevens World Series from the first tournament back in Dubai, the Blitzboks have got themselves to a position where they can win it outright with a gold medal in the Paris leg of the World Series, which starts on Saturday.

The importance of these last two legs has not been missed by coach Neil Powell, who knows that even though a series win could be imminent, the Olympic gold medallists Fiji lurk in second spot. The coach therefore is happy that leading up to the Paris and London legs, there was a comprehensive and fulfilling preparation camp in Stellenbosch.

The fact that he could start preparations back in Stellenbosch with all available players fully fit helped in getting the squad ready for the penultimate tournament of the season at the Stade Jean Bouin.

“This was one of the first preparation camps where we had all 13 players fit and able to train. I had individual chats with all the guys, and they really are full of motivation and keen to get going,” Powell said.

“These are the last two tournaments of a long series, so it’s always a challenge to get the guys up for it. But the energy levels are definitely up, and I am confident that the guys will put in the effort.”

The coach, who is looking to become the first person to win the World Rugby Sevens Series as both player and coach, has no illusions though on how tough the opening day will be in the French capital today.

South Africa play Scotland, Japan and Canada in Pool A of the tournament.

Saturday’s Fixtures

South Africa v Scotland 11.28am; South Africa v Japan 2.54pm; South Africa v Canada 6.42pm.

@DarrynJack216

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