The New Zealand women's sevens team have missed a prime chance to further close the gap on World Series leaders Australia after falling to a 31-14 Cup final defeat to England in Canada.
Australia had faltered in the Cup semifinal, losing 15-5 to England, but New Zealand were overpowered in the second half of the decider against a combative and totally committed England.
The climax started at a furious clip, with both sides swapping tries. Captain Sarah Goss scored within the first 90 seconds after a quick tap. Portia Woodman scored her 109th try in brilliant style, roaring in from 70m after using her trademark swerve.
But New Zealand could not get her enough ball in space. England, conversely, were using their big runners such as skipper Emily Scarratt, to devastating effect, and they won the breakdown with their vigour and application.
Heather Fisher, the MVP of the final, was the embodiment of their physicality, but a driving tackle by Danielle Waterman, the hard point of her shoulder deep into Stacey Waaka's midriff, was the best example of the English spirit.
