Handling Errors Prove Costly for Team GB in Rugby Sevens Quarter-Final Defeat to USA
Team GB's hopes of progressing in the women's rugby sevens at Stade de France were dashed as handling errors led to a 17-7 quarter-final loss to the USA. The defeat sends Team GB into the 5th-8th place play-off bracket, following a day marred by an off-field controversy involving player Amy Wilson-Hardy.
Team GB started strong with Ellie Boatman scoring a try in the right corner, which Lisa Thomson successfully converted from the touchline, giving them a 7-0 lead. However, a series of errant passes prevented the British side from capitalizing further. The USA seized the opportunity with Naya Tapper crossing the line to reduce the deficit to 7-5 by half-time.
The second half saw the Americans elevate their performance, with Kirsti Kriese and Sammy Sullivan each scoring tries to secure their place in the semi-finals. Team GB, having finished fourth at the previous two Olympics, will now compete in the 5th-8th place play-offs.
Adding to their on-field woes, the British Olympic Association announced an investigation into an alleged racist message sent by Wilson-Hardy, casting a shadow over the team's performance and morale.
Elsewhere in the women's rugby sevens competition, reigning champions New Zealand showcased their dominance by thrashing China 57-5, scoring nine tries to advance to the semi-finals, where they will face the USA.
In a dramatic turn of events, hosts France were eliminated by Canada, who clinched a 19-14 victory with a last-minute try from Chloe Daniels. The French team, aiming to replicate the success of their men's team, who won gold on the opening day of the Games, were left heartbroken after a forward pass in the final play sealed their fate.
Canada will now face Australia in the semi-finals, following Australia's convincing 40-7 victory over Ireland.
As the tournament progresses, the remaining teams will battle it out for a place in the finals, while Team GB will look to salvage their campaign in the lower-tier play-offs.
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