The inaugural HSBC SVNS Series has come to a glittering end in Madrid this weekend as France took home their second venue victory this season, beating Argentina 19-5 in a thrilling encounter at the Civitas Metropolitano Stadium.
The event was the 8th and final of an incredible series which has seen the greatest in the sevens games travel from exotic city to exotic city in search of the SVNS grand prize. Under the rebranding of World Rugby’s ‘SVNS’ banner, the occasions have gained more eyes on them than ever before, with the emphasis on the enjoyment, freedom and party atmosphere being of paramount importance to the events.
The inclusion of top tier talent from the fifteens game has also proved to be a huge hit with fans, with the likes of Antoine Dupont and Hugo Keenan drawing in interest from many around the globe wishing to see how the players adapt to the faster version of the game.
It was the former World Men’s 15s Player of the Year, Antoine Dupont that took his place in the final on Saturday. The huge viewing figures on broadcaster RugbyPass TV reflected the interest that has grown over the past twelve months in the shorter game, as the final major sevens match before this summers Olympics took centre stage.
The match itself looked tight in the early stages, with Argentina controlling much of the first few minutes, before taking the lead with a try from Luciano Gonzalez in the left hand corner. Their dominance wasn’t to last, however, after Madrid-born France player Stephen Parez finished off a length of the field try just before half time.
On came Dupont for the second half, much to the commentators excitement. With the inclusion of France’s fifteens captain, the men in dark blue started to take control, eventually finishing the match well and truly on top thanks to an Argentinian yellow card which left their defence open on the outside, as well as a beautiful try assist from Dupont.
Bit of magic from Antoine Dupont for France in their SVNS Grand Final win against Argentina in Madrid.
A week after winning the Champions Cup, Dupont helped France 7s to the SVNS title.
ADVERTISEMENTFrance march on towards their home Olympics. Some team! pic.twitter.com/fmUfEwJbiD
— Murray Kinsella (@Murray_Kinsella) June 2, 2024
Argentina looked to have earned themselves an impressive consolation try right at the death, but their efforts were quickly ruled out after a brutal act of their own was caught on camera. Following a fourteen man brawl, the players were separated by referee, Adam Leal – but only once Leal had promised to send the captains off if they did not retreat.
This gave the experienced referee, once called the fastest in rugby, the chance to review the footage. On review it was clear to see the horrific challenge demonstrated by World Player of the Year, Rodrigo Isgro which quickly led to a straight red card. Isgro was seen to tip and drive Paulin Riva past the horizonal and onto the top of his back/lower neck.
Check out the footage here:
Spear tackle in final match of the SVNS pic.twitter.com/dTYxSC9H1F
— Jack Tunney (@JackTunneyRugby) June 3, 2024
The reaction to the hit:
The reaction to the hit pic.twitter.com/OwUsht2fX4
— Jack Tunney (@JackTunneyRugby) June 3, 2024
Referee Adam Leal’s brilliant reaction to the captains:
Adam Leal’s brilliant dealing with the captains pic.twitter.com/lCURwRHP73
— Jack Tunney (@JackTunneyRugby) June 3, 2024
The next major sevens competition with be in France as they welcome the world to the 2024 Summer Olympics.
The Women's Rugby World Cup 2025 is coming to England. Register now here to be the first to hear about tickets.
Sign In