Philip Snyman’s Blitzboks have done the unthinkable, claiming their first-ever Hong Kong SVNS title in clinical style. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Springbok Sevens coach Philip Snyman was left “almost speechless” by the ruthless efficiency of his team after they claimed their first HSBC SVNS Hong Kong championship on Sunday.
The Blitzboks dominated on the day, comfortably beating their New Zealand counterparts in the semi-final before dispatching Argentina 35-7 at the Kai Tak Sports Stadium. Although nearly thunderstruck into silence by the triumph, the former Blitzbok could not hide his satisfaction. The victory sees the team take home a winner's cheque of approximately $100,000 (R1.88 million).
“I’m almost speechless,” Snyman said afterwards, via a statement from SA Rugby.
“There is a massive feeling of pride and gratitude at this moment. We waited so long for this, and I am happy we finally did it. I am also very happy for us as a group, not only those here tonight, but also those back home who worked just as hard to make it possible.”
Although the Blitzboks ripped through their opponents on Sunday, they did not have it all their own way during the tournament. On Friday, they battled against Uruguay, winning 12-7, before losing their second pool match to Spain 31-12. A day later, they were pushed by a keen Kenya side, eventually winning 26-22 to book their place in the last four.
“The way we came back from that stutter was exceptional,” Snyman said, “especially today when we played against two very good teams in New Zealand and Argentina. We were so clinical and effective in everything we did; it was wonderful to see first-hand.”
It was the Blitzboks’ fifth tournament win of the season and their fourth on the trot. Having already sealed the Sevens Series victory, they are now well-placed to challenge for the Sevens World Championship.
Snyman added: “Four tournament wins from four is amazing and we are enjoying it, knowing it will not last forever. For now, though, we are enjoying it and feeling very proud of what we have achieved so far.”
The Springboks Women's Sevens, meanwhile, struggled to a disappointing 12th-finish in Hong Kong in their pursuit of qualifying for the main circuit next season.
The next leg of the Grand Finals is the penultimate event in Spain.