Paris 2024: Australia overcome Samoa in Rugby Sevens opener
It may not have been pretty, but the Australia 7s have managed to overcome a determined Samoa 21-14 in a thrilling opener to the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Despite being sent out as rank outsiders with Marantelli Bet, at odds of $8.50, it was Samoa who opened the scoring in the third minute as Motu Opetai produced a stunning intercept try from the halfway line to give Samoa an early 7-0 lead.
The Aussies looked rusty and didn’t hit the scoreboard until the final play of the first half, as Henry Hutchinson, playing in his third Olympics scored under the post.
At his second Olympics, it was Nathan Lawson who made a scintillating run down the touch line to put Australia ahead halfway through the second half.
It was Henry Hutchinson who doubled his try tally in the final minute of the game and wrapped up the points for the Aussies.
However, Samoa would produce a bit of brilliance after the hooter, with Faafoi Falaniko scoring under the posts, with a score that may prove pivotal for both teams if points difference becomes a factor.
Australia will play Kenya at 3am AEST (25/7), as they look to book a spot in the qualifying rounds.
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