South Africa beat New Zealand in Dubai

South Africa successfully defended their Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens title after beating New Zealand 24-12 on Saturday.

The reigning world series champions unleashed all their attacking firepower in what was a breathtaking display of sevens rugby across the two days. With his most experienced side ever, head coach Neil Powell notched up his fifth tournament win of 2017 and continued South Africa's dominance on the global stage.

First-half tries from Rosko Specman, Seabelo Senatla and Kwagga Smith put the Blitzboks 19-0 up against New Zealand, who were chasing their first tournament win since Vancouver in 2016.

Seabelo Senatla scores for the Blitzbokke

Scott Curry and Andrew Knewstubb got New Zealand back into the game, but Tim Agaba wrapped it up for the Blitzbokke.

"It was a great performance from the guys," said Senatla, who scored seven tries in Dubai, "It's been a while since we all played together but it's so great to win again in Dubai."

England pipped Fiji 28-21 to win the Bronze final, while France beat Spain 21-12 to win the Challenge Trophy.

The tournament heads to Cape Town next week where England will be defending their crown.

Editor's Note: This article was originally published in Sky Sports on Saturday December 2nd, 2017 http://bit.ly/Skysportsdubairugby