Emilie Bydwell’s USA team got their 2024 Olympic rugby sevens campaign off to a perfect start with two comprehensive wins on day one in Paris.
Facing Japan in their first match, the US scored six tries through Kristi Kirshe (2), Sarah Levy, Alex Sedrick, Sammy Sullivan and Ilona Maher.
Whilst the first match was smooth sailing for the US, the second match with Brazil was far tighter as Bydwell’s side struggled to shake off their South American rivals.
Scoring in overtime of the first half to take a 12 – 5 lead, the Eagles were far from safe as the second half got underway.
Clearly frustrated on the sidelines, Bydwell could be seen telling her team to up the tempo and run the ball.
Taking their coaches’ instructions on board, the Eagles started to probe the Brazilian line with a more direct approach, with the replacements having a major impact.
Getting her team some breathing space, Ilona Maher would race away for the Eagles’ third try of the day midway through the half.
Now firmly in control, the US would finish with a flourish, with replacement Alex Sedrick being rewarded for her impact with a super try as she brushed off a would-be Brazilian defender.
Reflecting on the day, Sammy Sullivan said, “I’d say right now we feel like the job is done for day one, got the two wins in. It wasn’t the prettiest win against Brazil, but we’d be scared if every game looked pretty. It was good to get those first couple of shocks in and prove to ourselves that we can be resilient and fight those tough calls and tough mistakes. For tomorrow’s game we’re feeling pumped. The crowd has been electric, we’ve all said we’re excited to play France in France, because of this amazing crowd. No matter the outcome, though, we’re ultimately making history.”
Next up for the US is a top-of-the-table matchup with hosts France, who were dominant on day one, scoring a combined 75 points without conceding anything.
This final pool round match will kick off at 14.30 local time (10.30 ET), with the quarterfinals getting underway at 20.00 local time (16.00 ET).
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Source link : https://www.florugby.com/articles/12752842-impressive-usa-sevens-secure-unbeaten-start-to-olympic-campaign-in-paris
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Publish date : 2024-07-28 16:43:00
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