Canada upsets Wales and Fiji to make Cape Town Sevens quarterfinal

Dec 9, 2017 | 11:02 AM

CAPE TOWN, South Africa — Canada upset Fiji and Wales to win its pool and advance to the Cup quarterfinals on Saturday at the Cape Town Sevens rugby tournament.

After starting the day with a 19-17 loss to Samoa, Canada conceded the first try to Fiji’s Jerry Tuwai but led by halftime after John Moonlight and Harry Jones scored. Justin Douglas added a pair in the second half and Canada held on to reach the quarterfinals.

Douglas added another try in the Canadians’ 31-14 victory over Wales.

Canada will play France on Sunday in the quarterfinals.

Also, the United States upended New Zealand and Australia to cruise into the quarters with host South Africa. Defending champion England also swept its pool.

New Zealand, at risk of missing its first quarterfinals in 20 years, crushed Australia 35-12.

South Africa swept aside Russia, France, and Kenya, conceding only a try to each.

In the process, Seabelo Senatla, after three tries against Russia and one against France, became the fastest man to 200 tries in series history, in his 35th tournament. Senatla was the fifth man to the milestone. Meanwhile, Dan Norton of England extended his series tries record to 272 on Saturday.

“It’s been a surreal day for me,” Senatla said. “The reception I got was amazing, and to play in my hometown was incredible.”

Fiji routed Samoa 38-7 to make the last eight, where it will play South Africa on Sunday.

Also, the U.S. faces Argentina and England will meet New Zealand.

The Canadian Press

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