Blitzboks edge Argentina in thriller

The Blitzboks bounced back from an opening round defeat to Great Britain at the Singapore Sevens with a nail-biting win against Argentina on Saturday.

Zander Reynders scored in extra time to secure a dramatic 26-24 victory against Los Pumas to climb into second place in Pool A.

Argentina struck first, with Luciano Gonzalez crossing the whitewash after a bulldozing-run from within his own half, bouncing Selvyn Davids on his way to the try line.

Positive response

The Blitzboks responded through Zain Davids, before taking the lead after Siviwe Soyizwapi dotted down in the corner after a good period of possession.

Argentina stayed within touching distance after a superb solo effort from Tobias Wade who collected his own grubber before diving over for the try, the Blitzboks taking a 14-12 lead into the break thanks to Soyozwapi’s goal-kicking accuracy.

Mattias Osadczuk’s try was cancelled out by a devastating run from Dewald Human, breaking the Argentinian defensive line for the Blitzboks’ third of the match.

Agustin Fraga looked to have confirmed an Argentina win, capitalising on a poor defensive effort from South Africa, dominating the collision and scoring under the posts.

Zander Reynders delivered in the clutch, winning the race to a grubber to score the winner at the death, securing a 26-24 win for South Africa.

Argentina were set to face Great Britain at 2pm in the final Pool A. A win for Los Pumas would send South Africa into the ninth place playoff on Sunday morning.

This story was first published on sarugbymag.co.za. It is republished here with permission.