Argentina win first Hong Kong Sevens to mark new era at 5bn stadium

HONG KONG - Argentina won their first ever Hong Kong Sevens on March 30 when they outmuscled France 12-7 in the final to kick off a fresh era for the famous tournament at the city’s new US$3.85 billion (S$5.16 billion) Kai Tak stadium.

The World Sevens Series leaders’ defeat of the Olympic champions meant a new name was engraved on the venerable old trophy first contested in 1976.

Los Pumas extended their lead at the top of the men’s World Rugby Sevens standings to 12 points over Fiji with a third consecutive tournament win, adding Hong Kong to their Vancouver and Perth crowns.

It was a magical moment for Argentina’s coach Santiago Gomez Cora, who came to Hong Kong as a player in 2004 and suffered the agony of losing in the final to England.

“It was one of my dreams to win this one,” said Gomez Cora.

“When you talk about sevens it’s all about Hong Kong. When you win here as a coach or a player it is like nothing else.

“After 20 years, we’re in a final again, but we won this time. That’s it, that’s life and that’s why we love this sport.”

After a scoreless first half Argentina took advantage when France’s Liam Delamare was sent to the sin-bin for a high tackle.

Santiago Alvarez bullocked over from a crash ball for the opening try.

Less than a minute later, Marcos Moneta galloped through a tiring and depleted French defence. Joaquin Pellandini converted for a 12-0 lead.

Gregoire Arfeuil got a consolation after the hooter.

Australia took the bronze after beating Fiji 22-21 in a third-place playoff thriller decided by Sidney Harvey’s try after full-time.

“That was insane,” said Harvey who capitalised on James Turner’s