May 31, 2008

England rush too late

England17-17 Russia

England’s second match ended 17-a-piece due to a late try by Russia at the Emirates Airline Edinburgh Sevens.

Russia dominated the first half keeping England on their toes throughout, starting with a try in the fourth minute and then another just before the break leaving England trailing 0-12 at half-time.

It was another Ollie Phillips chip and chase that finally got England on the score board, with Ben Gollings converting within 30 seconds of the second-half.

Within two minutes, England went into the lead with tries from Newcastle Falcons’ Micky Young and substitute Uche Oduoza, Gollings failed to convert either leaving Russia trailing 17-12 on the final buzzer. But, with the ball still in play Russia took their opportunities to score the final try of the match but failed to convert taking the game to a tie.

Englandwill play New Zealand at 4.20pm

England: Tom Biggs (Leeds Carnegie), Ollie Cook (Doncaster Knights), Micky Young (Newcastle Falcons), Tom Youngs (Leicester Tigers), Ollie Phillips (Newcastle Falcons), Andy Vilk (Sale Sharks, captain), Ben Gollings (Sunnybank, Australia)

Replacements: Jack Adams (Gloucester Rugby), Kevin Barrett (Exeter Chiefs), Uche Oduoza (Worcester Warriors)

Scorers: Ollie Phillips (t), Micky Young (t), Uche Oduoza (t), Ben Gollings (c)

To follow England Sevens go to www.rfu.com/sevens

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