Maddison Levi masterclass guides Australia into Olympic Rugby Sevens quarter-finals

Sun, Jul 28, 2024, 5:57 PM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Seven tries in two games from Maddison Levi has ensured Australia's place in the quarter-finals. Photo: Getty Images
Seven tries in two games from Maddison Levi has ensured Australia's place in the quarter-finals. Photo: Getty Images

Australia have eased their way into the Rugby Sevens quarter-finals with a pair of wins over South Africa (34-5) and Great Britain (36-5) on the opening day of action at the Stade de France.

Flyer Maddison Levi was at her brilliant best with seven tries in two games, coming off from setting the record for most tries in an SVNS World Series season.

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The Australians were intent on sending a message from the opening whistle against the South Africans and Tia Hinds’ break from the kickoff set the tempo for a one-sided affair.

This set up Levi for her first of the day in the opening minute after a switch play with Charlotte Caslick put her into a hole.

It was one of a hat-trick of tries for the elder Levi, with Maddison and Faith Nathan blitzing the South Africans for a 24-0 at the break.

Teagan Levi scored after the break before setting up her sister for her fourth to seal the win.

Great Britain gave Australia more of a test in their second match on day one, with Heather Cowell getting them first on the board after a yellow card to Teagan Levi.

It only halted their momentum for a brief moment as a double to Maddison Levi put them in front.

The Australians turned up the pressure and Bienne Terita was there to put the game out of reach for GB with a try on either side of the break.

Teagan Levi capped off the near-perfect day with a try right before the siren.

The only concern from the day was a suspected knee injury to Kaitlin Shave in the win over South Africa. 

The young gun went down with a non-contact injury and tried to play on, only for a yellow card to force her from the field.

She was replaced in the squad for the GB match by travelling reserve Kahli Henwood, who made her Australian debut off the bench.

Australia will face Ireland in the final pool game (10:30 pm) as they look to wrap up top spot in Pool B.

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