The Springbok Sevens team had to grind out a 10-7 victory in slippery and wet conditions in Western Australia, giving themselves the best possible chance of advancing to the knockout rounds.

The Blitzboks opened the scoring against the host nation when Donavan Don crossed the line for an unconverted try, putting South Africa in the lead.

On the stroke of half-time, Australia struck back with a James Turner try, which was converted by Maurice Longbottom, giving the hosts a 7-5 lead at the break.

Ronald Brown. Photo: X

The wet conditions proved challenging for both teams, especially as sevens rugby is a far more expansive game than the 15-a-side format.

The second half was a tight arm-wrestle, but it was the former Toyota Cheetahs centre, David Brits, who gave South Africa the lead late in the game with a try that went unconverted.

The Blitzboks managed to hold off the Australians in the final two minutes, ensuring they finished day one with a 100% record and remained at the top of Pool A.

Earlier in the day, the Blitzboks kicked off their campaign with a 24-19 win against the USA, courtesy of a late Ronald Brown try.

Match against @Aussie7s up next! Let's go guys!#HSBCSVNSPER pic.twitter.com/asv6ovVjFc

— Springbok Sevens (@Blitzboks) January 24, 2025

In the other Pool A game, the USA edged the defending Perth champions, Argentina, 24-19 through a golden score after the match had ended 19-19 in regulation time.

On Saturday, South Africa will look to maintain their unbeaten record when they face Argentina in their final Pool match. This game is scheduled to kick off at 07:30.

Scorers:

Australia: Try – James Turner Conv. – Maurice Longbottom

Blitzboks: Tries – Donavan Don, David Brits

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh