Lady Volcanoes yield Rugby Sevens crown

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Lady Volcanoes failed to write a perfect ending to their dream run as they dropped a 7-10 setback to Malaysia in the Cup final of the Asia Rugby Women’s Sevens Trophy Sunday at Panaga Club in Seria, Brunei.

Two early tries conceded to Malaysia proved too much for the top-seeded Filipinas, who settled for the silver medal after romping off with five straight victories in the 10-nation tournanment.

With this upset, the Malayians gained promotion to the top-tier Asia Rugby Women’s Sevens Series next year.

“The final match was very tough as we’re expecting it to be. We played our hearts and minds out; it just happens we didn’t get the final trophy but I believe our team did everything we could as individuals and as a team to get where we are and we’re very grateful,” said Phl skipper Helena Indigne.

The Lady Volcanoes couldn’t stop Nurul Azree Azli from drawing first blood at the fourth minute and Nur Zieeyah Jerry from doubling the lead two minutes later as they were forced to play catch-up in the gold medal match.

Rassiel Sales put Phl on the board at the eighth minute and Aimu Ono added two extra points to close in at 7-10 but the Malaysians held them off towards the finish to complete the reversal.

“We are suprised and we can’t believe we have actually won the final,” said Malaysia coach Nik Ismade.