The Leones Seven surprise against the All Blacks

Dec. 9 () –

The Spanish men’s 7s rugby team prevailed (10-14) this Friday over New Zealand on the first day of the World Series event in Cape Town, achieving their second victory in history over the All Blacks Sevens, after a a match that they dominated from start to finish against a rival who had just won bronze in Dubai, just a week ago.

The early expulsion of Tone Ng Shiu doomed the Oceanicians and allowed Spain to treasure possession during the first half of the game. The All Blacks, locked in their 22nd, redoubled their efforts in defense until at minute 7, Manu Moreno scored the first test that left the score at 0-7 at halftime.

The break gave a new air to New Zealand, which after the restart closed the gap with the Regan Ware brand. Despite the 5-7 scoreline and the entire second half to play, Los Leones did not get nervous and followed their game plan: possession and sacrifice, both in attack and defense.

After much equality in the following minutes, Francisco Cosculluela quickly took out a penalty and played with his captain, Juan Ramos, who with a fantastic misstep slipped through the defense and added the second try for Spain. New Zealand with virtually no reaction time, tested through a great gallop from Moses Leo, but failed to control the ball on the restart and Spain sealed their victory.

With this victory, Los Leones are placed second in Group C. Next Saturday they will face Argentina (7:45 am peninsular time) and Kenya, (1:26 pm), with the aim of maintaining their good feelings and qualifying for the Copa de Cape Town 7s gold.