Argentina, competing for the HSBC SVNS league title, made a strong comeback in the second half of their fifth-place playoff to narrowly defeat the Springbok Sevens by 14-10 in their final match in Singapore over the weekend.
Despite an undefeated record in their three pool matches, the Blitzboks faced disappointment in both their playoff games. They suffered a 29-24 loss to Australia in the quarter-final on Saturday, where their opponents secured the win with a golden try in extra time. This was followed by a narrow defeat against Argentina on Sunday morning.
The Blitzboks held a 10-0 lead at halftime after first-half tries from Tiaan Pretorius and Siviwe Soyizwapi, but both conversion attempts were unsuccessful.
The Argentine team put up a spirited performance in the second half, scoring the winning try in the final minute to hand the South Africans a second consecutive sixth-place finish in the league standings.
Head coach Philip Snyman acknowledged the team’s strong start against Argentina but emphasized the need to maintain consistency throughout the game.
Captain Selvyn Davids echoed his coach’s sentiments, highlighting the importance of playing a full 14-minute game in sevens rugby and the need to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
Snyman emphasized the need for better decision-making under pressure and staying true to the game plan in critical moments.
Despite missing out on a semi-final spot, the team remains optimistic about their performances and aims to improve in the upcoming Grand Finale in Madrid.
Argentina secured the top spot in the overall standings and were crowned league champions, with Ireland unable to catch up on the log standings.
Scorers:
South Africa 10 (10) – Tries: Siviwe Soyizwapi, Tiaan Pretorius.
Argentina 14 (0) – Tries: Agustin Fraga, Tobias Wade. Conversions: Wade (2).
Issued by SA Rugby Communications
Note to editors: Audio notes from Philip Snyman and Selvyn Davids (both in English and Afrikaans) are available to download here.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of South African Rugby.
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