Dominant New Zealand takes Sydney Sevens women’s crown

New Zealand stamped their dominance in the women’s Rugby Sevens tournament in Sydney on Sunday, beating Australia 34-10 in the final to extend their record 48-match unbeaten run. It was sweet revenge for the Black Ferns, who were crushed 31-0 by the Australians in the Sydney final last year. World Rugby women’s sevens player of the year Michaela Blyde scored a hat-trick while Stacey Waaka put away two tries. Australia suffered a blow in the first-half when skipper Sharni Williams was yellow-carded, leaving the Kiwis to take advantage of their superior numbers and go into the break 17-5 after two tries. Despite the loss, Australia climbed to joint-third on the overall standings behind New Zealand, the United States and Canada.