KEY POINTS:
New Zealand predictably advanced to the sudden death phase of the London round of the IRB Sevens competition, though without their customary fluidity.
The English title holders, who had the opportunity to defend their overall series title overnight (NZT), needed a late try to subdue Argentina in their pool A opener, Tomasi Cama dotting down late while the South Americans had Santiago Gomex Cora in the bin.
New Zealand squeezed in 10-7 and then surprisingly conceded two tries before overcoming minnows Moldova 38-14. However, a 24-0 blanking of Wales in their final pool encounter suggested Gordon Tietjens' team were building momentum ahead of their quarter-final with England.
New Zealand's scratchy form was overshadowed by Portugal who shocked Australia to reach the cup quarter-finals for the first time.
- NZPA
