Perfect run continues as Bok Women edge Argentina in Dubai final with promotion secured

The Springbok Women’s Sevens extended their perfect run dating back to November’s Africa Sevens Cup, but not without a stern test, edging Argentina 12-5 in a hard-fought final at the HSBC SVNS 3 tournament in Dubai on Sunday.

After a dominant Pool A showing on Saturday — amassing 118 points while conceding just 10 — the Bok Women carried that momentum into Sunday’s semi-final, where they dispatched Poland 33-5 with another polished attacking display.

That victory set up a final showdown with Argentina, who had also gone unbeaten through the tournament after defeating Czechia in their semi-final.

By reaching the decider at The Sevens Stadium, both teams secured their places in the HSBC SVNS 2 series later this year, but given the recent history between the two sides, a tense contest was always on the cards.

The final unfolded into a tight, physical battle before South Africa found the composure to lift the trophy. A defensive lapse early in the match allowed Maria Taladrid to punch a hole through the middle of the Bok defence in the fourth minute. The South Africans fought hard to get back into the contest, driven by inspirational skipper Nadine Roos, but Las Yaguaretés remained unyielding, taking a 5-0 lead into half-time.

Whatever coach Cecil Afrika told his players at the break worked, as they started the second half with greater focus and intensity. They were more patient on the ball and composed in their build-up play.

After winning a scrum penalty, the Boks gave the ball plenty of air, allowing Zintle Mpupha to restore parity in the ninth minute. Replacement Ayanda Malinga played a key role, sucking in defenders with a powerful run to create room for the veteran forward to score.

A second yellow card reduced Argentina to six players in the 12th minute, and Roos opted for a scrum five metres out. Her looping pass found Patience Mokone in acres of space on the right, and the winger crossed for the match-winning try with her first touch of the ball.

The Springbok Women put their bodies on the line in a frantic closing spell, and the relief was palpable when Liske Lategan toed a loose ball into touch to end the contest.

SCOREBOARD

South Africa 12 (0)
Tries: Zintle Mpupha, Patience Mokone; Conversion: Nadine Roos
Argentina 5 (5)
Try: Maria Taladrid