DUBAI 7s: Pool Stage Wrap- Burra Rays
Wow. The Dubai 7s is an incredible event. Huge crowds, poolside rugby facilities, immaculate competition fields and teams from all over the world. The girls have been exemplary role models of the program and club thus far, reflected on the field by comprehensive scores in their opening 2 matches of the competition.
GAME 1- Vs Uzbekistan
The first National team the Rays have played, Uzbekistan started strongly for the first minute of play. A decisive break by centre Liana Rose led to a Tiarne Cavanagh try to open the Rays account. From there the Rays defensive shape troubled Uzbekistan throughout the match, with girls rewarded with turnovers for their strong linespeed and presence over the ball.
The rays ran out 45-0 winners to open their account. Try Scorers: Lily Murdoch, Tiarne Cavanagh, Liana Rose, Morgan Te Oka, Olivia Brooks, Chloe Saunders
GAME 2- Vs The Cats
An improved performance on game one saw the Rays run out comprehensive winners over UK invitational side “the Cats”. Liana Rose opened the scoring early in the first half which set the tone for the rest of the match. Plenty of work has been put in at training recently on our transitions and encouraging wide and fast play, which is helping break teams down in Dubai.
Final score: 47-0. Try scorers; Liana Rose, Ella Fountaine, Shaye Shipton, Morgan Te Oka, Liv White.
GAME 3- Vs MoBros
Our final pool game saw us pitted against MoBros, who also won their pool matches easily, setting up the match of the round.
The Rays saved one of their performances of the year in a dominant display, again with transition and wide attack proving pivotal in the result. The Rays topped the pool, eventually winning 38-5.
Try scorers: Shaye Shipton, Ella Fountaine 2, Liana Rose, Chloe Saunders
FINALS DAY:
The Rays now progress to the knockout division of the competition, versing Mauritius Barbarians at 11am Saturday. A win will see them progress to the Cup Semi- Final with a likely matchup against Tropic 7s who have also performed strongly in their group.
A huge thankyou to Major Sponsor Hydralyte, Tour Sponsor Degnan and all club sponsors who made this possible.