PATRICK T. FALLON / AFP
Victorious over Ireland (26-24) in the semi-final, the French 7s team won its ticket to the final of the Californian tournament, where it will meet Great Britain, which it beat in the group.
The Blues did it: they beat Ireland (26-24), second in the world rankings, this Sunday in the semi-final of the Los Angeles tournament. A tense and indecisive match but the Tricolores were masters of their nerves and their rugby. Jérôme Daret’s players were exemplary in defense against the numerous green attacks.
This half was particularly close and intense. France conceded an entry try but responded immediately by scoring three tries, the first by Antoine Dupont. The Irish never gave up, scoring three more tries. But, on the last one, the one which would have allowed them to snatch extra time, the Greens missed a transformation in stoppage time. Sealing the victory for France 7.
The French will aim tonight (3:23 a.m. French time) for a first title this season on the world circuit. They will be opposed to Great Britain, which they beat in the group stage and which eliminated Spain (10-7). After their third place at the Vancouver tournament last week, the Blues confirm their rise in power before the Paris Olympics with the arrival of Antoine Dupont, who has successfully integrated himself. If successful, it would be only the second victory for “France 7” on the world circuit. Promising before the Olympics.