Australia claimed the crown at the second round of the World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series in Sao Paulo on Sunday.

In a downpour in the Brazilian city, Shannon Parry led her team to a 29-0 win over Canada, who had earlier shocked reigning champions New Zealand in the semi-finals with a wonder try from captain Jen Kish.

With the Olympic Games looming large in Brazil, the Sao Paulo event saw a samba atmosphere at Arena Barueri where many of the teams who will play in Rio de Janeiro in August set out their stall, as the games edge even closer.

The Bowl was won by Russia, who defeated Japan, and the Plate Final was claimed by France who overcame Fiji, 17-5.

Third place at the competition went to New Zealand, who, despite improving on their fifth place finish in Dubai, will be disappointed not to have made the final in Brazil.

They beat USA 28-0 in the pouring rain.

‘Wet-weather strategy’

Recording back-to-back victories in the opening two legs of the series, Australia’s road to their second title was hugely impressive as they showed their full box of tricks and managed the torrential rain in the Cup Final.

Canada and Australia had each other, and the bucketing rain, to face in search of the title.

The elements were hugely challenging but Australia handled them brilliantly and adjusted their game plan accordingly.

Australian captain Shannon Parry was keeping her cool after the game.

“It was really tough and the Canadians really put it up to us tonight. I’m very proud of the girls who put in a solid performance”

“It’s Brazil, it always rains at night and I’m glad we put that wet-weather strategy into play and got the win,” said Parry.

Canadian captain Jen Kish was downbeat after the final, but pointed to the positives.

“They are a class act and a good team, but there were too many errors on our part.”

Semi-finals see shock

The Cup semi-finals were two enthralling affairs.

Early on Ellia Green ignited Australia’s match against the USA and they never looked back, cruising to a 34-0 victory. In contrast, the match between New Zealand and Canada was tense and close.

However, Jen Kish’s phenomenal solo score just after the break inspired the Canadians to their first-ever victory over New Zealand.

World Rugby chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “I want to congratulate Australia for winning a thrilling tournament in Sao Paulo this weekend.

“Again, we were reminded of the fantastic standard of competition on display in the Women’s Series”

“The Rio 2016 Olympic Games is rugby’s opportunity to reach and inspire new audiences and we believe that rugby sevens’ exciting brand of skills, speed and breath-taking, fan-friendly action will be a hit with the people of Rio, Brazil and beyond.”

-World Rugby

Feedback:  oseab@fijisun.com.fj