A solo try to Nick Malouf propelled Australia to a 29-21 last-gasp victory over South Africa and into the quarter-finals at the Sydney 7s.
A 29-14 loss to Argentina earlier on Saturday meant the defending champions needed to beat powerhouse South African side by six points or more to stay alive in the tournament.
It didn’t look good for Tim Walsh’s side before Malouf took matters into his own hands with a 60m individual effort in the final moments of the clash to steal victory.
“We knew we had to win by six (points) so it was a real moment to embrace and own, and fair play, they (players) came up with the goods,” Walsh said.
MORE: Six Nations 2019: Team-by-team guide |
“It was an emotional roller coaster but finally it was a good one.
“The boys put in the effort and they worked hard. We got our opportunity and we took it and we’re into tomorrow now which was the first step. Now we have to repeat the way we played today for three games tomorrow.
“Fiji are an amazing attacking team. They will score tries so it’s how you respect the ball when you hold onto it. Defensively you can shut them down but it’s easier said than done.”
Meanwhile, the Aussie women’s team will meet Ireland in the semi-finals on Sunday after seeing off France 21-17 in a gripping quarter-final on day one.
