Defending Wellington 7s champions New Zealand take on the Vodafone Fijian 7s side in the Cup quarterfinals of the Wellington Sevens today.

This was after New Zealand beat United States 24-12 last night to top their pool. The Fijians are the first hurdle for the Scott Curry-led side as they aim for their fourth straight Wellington Sevens title win.

New Zealand 7s co- coach Scott Waldrom said, when they trailed USA 7-0, it was a nice little wake-up call for the team.

“You don’t want to go in too cocky, especially against a USA team with some real strike power,” Waldrom said.

But 2016/17 World Sevens Series points table leader, South Africa were probably the day’s most impressive side. They beat Japan 33-0, Australia 28-0 and finally Fiji 31-12 to determine New Zealand’s first day-two opponent.

Cape Town 7s winners England were in fine form, in working their way out of a weak Pool A, alongside Argentina, and will play neighbours Scotland in the quarterfinals.

Argentina will play Pool D winners Canada, while France earned a date with South Africa thanks to their 28-5 win over Samoa.