The French men’s sevens rugby team could not do better than 11th during the 8th stage of the World Circuit, Sunday, in London, won by Australia ahead of New Zealand (19-14 after extra time). Placed in a raised Pool C, which included the two finalists, the Blues had hardly beaten Canada (19-14) on Saturday before yielding quite clearly against the All Blacks (36-7) and the Australians (28-19).
On Sunday, for the classification matches, Jérôme Daret’s men first easily disposed of Kenya (31-0) with a double from Nelson Epée. But for the next match, against the United States, they again missed their start, being led 12-0 after 4 minutes and 19-7 at halftime.
In the second half, two converted tries from Joachim Trouabal (11th and 15th) responded to two converted tries from Malacchi Esdale (9th) and Dmontae Noble (13th) to offer a success to the Americans which allows them to regain 6th place in the general classification to the Blues. It’s another disappointing result for the French, especially after the beautiful 3rd place taken in Toulouse a week ago. The ninth and final leg of the men’s sevens circuit will take place in Los Angeles on August 27-28, less than two weeks before the World Cup in South Africa, which takes place September 9-11.
The results of the Blues during the London stage
Saturday:
France – Canada 19-14
France – New Zealand 7-36
France – Australia 19-28
Sunday:
France – Kenya: 31-0
USA – France: 31-19
