There were winning starts for Hong Kong’s men and Japan’s women as the Asia Rugby Sevens Series got underway at the Hong Kong Football Club.
Japan’s women fared better in their opening tournament, lifting the trophy after a 14-7 Cup final win over China.
Like Hong Kong’s men, the Sakura Sevens breezed through the pool stages after posting over a century of points with no reply. But they too had to come from behind to begin their campaign on a winning note.
Singapore, Guam and Hong Kong were all brushed aside on Friday before Japan booked their place in the final the next day with a 43-0 win over Thailand. China defeated Hong Kong 19-7 in the second semi-final.
In a scintillating final, the Japanese women were given a real scare by China, but tries from player of the tournament Chiharu Nakamura and the equally outstanding Mayu Shimizu eventually saw the Sakura Sevens home.
A resounding 36-7 victory over Thailand ensured hosts Hong Kong took third place to finish the tournament on a high.
The Asia Rugby Sevens Series moves on to Korea on 24-25 September, before concluding in Sri Lanka on 15-16 October.
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