By Dylan Bettencourt
- The Blitzboks beat Spain 19-5 in the final after storming through the tournament unbeaten and smashing New Zealand 26-5 in the semi-final.
- Selvyn Davids’ 80-metre solo try and Ronald Brown’s conversions sealed the win in a dream end to a tough season.
The Blitzboks were in a league of their own as they dominated the Sevens World Championship in Los Angeles, finishing the season in style with a 19-5 win over Spain in the final.
Coach Philip Snyman couldn’t stop smiling as his side produced the goods when it mattered most.
“This team delivered an amazing performance,” he said, News24 reported. “There were ups and downs this season, but this weekend everything came together.”
Despite finishing only fourth in the regular season, the Blitzboks turned it on in LA — a one-off finale featuring the top eight sides.
They sailed through the group stage, beating France, Great Britain and series champions Argentina. Then they crushed New Zealand 26-5 in the semi-final before finishing off Spain.
Snyman praised his players for sticking to the game plan and making magic when it mattered. “Some of those moments in the final were just brilliant,” he said.
One of those moments came from Selvyn Davids. The captain lit up the field with a stunning solo try, sprinting 80 metres past defenders. Brown slotted the conversion to make it 7-0 at half-time.
Spain had most of the possession but couldn’t break the Blitzboks’ defence. They pulled one try back through Pol Pla but missed the conversion.
Then Mfundo Ndhlovu turned on the jets. From deep in South Africa’s half, he burst clear to score. Brown kicked another two points to make it 14-5.
Even a yellow card to Zander Reynders didn’t slow them down. Siviwe Soyizwapi won a crucial turnover that allowed Ricardo Duarttee to finish the job.
Snyman said the team rediscovered their identity. “There was belief, hunger and teamwork — this was the real Springbok Sevens,” he said.
Captain Davids said they gave everything. “We left everything on the field. We fought for each other, and for the badge,” he said.
He admitted the team had struggled for consistency, but they clicked at the right time. “Even when we had dark patches, someone always stepped up,” he said.
The Blitzboks now return home with pride — and silverware.
Pictured above: The Blitzboks lifting the trophy.
Image source: @Blitzboks
