New Zealand entered their home series and fought hard against a valiant Fijian defence before falling 12 – 7. So it was fair to say the Kiwi’s were coming out for revenge in their second game against Spain.
What happened was virtually a clinic on how many tries can be scored in one game. Sherwin Stowers, Tim Mikkelson, Ben Lam and Bryce Heem all took part in what can only be described as a savaging of Spain. With a final score margin of 55 – 0 it’s safe to say revenge was sweet at the very least.
Last Word on Sport caught up for a quick chat with New Zealand 7s Captain DJ Forbes, and asked about what was learned in the Fiji Game, and what New Zealand brought to the Spain game “I think we just made a few too many errors. I think we were a lot better than the result, but in saying that this is a good Fijian side. There’s no easy beats. So to get fifty points against Spain was definitely pleasing, so we’re still in with a chance.”
Looking ahead, New Zealand faces off against France in the last of the pool games today. France have come off a strong victory against Spain, and at the time of writing were 10 – 0 down against the dominant Fijian squad. I asked DJ what to expect in their next match “Well, it’s do or die I guess. We’ve got to beat France to even have a chance at the Cup Quarter [finals]. We’ll be looking to build on what we did [against Spain]. Our defence was really good, not letting through any tries, and we managed to play some good footy. Simple rugby. That’s what we aimed to do against Fiji, but like I said we made a few errors, and paid the price. But definitely pleasing against Spain.”
If nothing else the result against Fiji shows just how changeable and unpredictable this series can be, with nothing being impossible. New Zealand however will be coming out against France rejuvenated and determined. One thing is certain, the last match of the day will bring the house down.
My deepest thanks to DJ Forbes for chatting after a gruelling and physical couple of games. Hopefully the Kiwi’s can bring it home and blow the series open.
Tomorrow promises to be an amazing semis series, we’re not done yet!
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Photo Credit: Kyle Willoughby
