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OMBAC Captures US Sevens Title
OMBAC captured its third title in the history of US Sevens beating Sacramento 27-17 with tries from Snyman, DiSorbo and Dahlen (2). A drop goal from the tournament's MVP, Nelo Lui , killed all Sacramento hopes with 5 minutes to go in the second half. OMBAC had won the tournament in 1985 and 1995. If 1999 was the year of the East Coast teams, 2000 was the year of the California teams. OMBAC (San Diego) and Sacramento reached the finals and San Mateo won the plate. San Mateo had to face Sacramento in the quarterfinals and was defeated 10-7 in one of the toughest matches of the tournament. NOVA came to Conshohocken with high expectations but their main offensive weapon, Prince Hill was injured the very first game. However, their teamwork allowed them to reach the semis, losing to Sacramento 26-14. Jovesa Naivalu (San Mateo) was the top scorer with approximately 15 tries scored in 6 games. Naivalu, a very recent addition to the Eagles, was unstoppable during the whole tournament. What is difficult to believe is that he has been playing rugby for less than two years, but his athleticism is such that his inexperience is almost unnoticed. Another interesting development was the appearance of NYAC (New York Athletic Club) coached by the recently appointed US 7s Women's Program Director Al Caravelli. NYAC included three Sevens Eagles (Kevin Linzey, Kurt Schuman and John McGeachy) and looked impressive with a tie to defending champion Philly-Whitemarsh 10-10, and victories over Elvis 14-12 and Olympic Club 26-5 in the first round. But NOVA upset NYAC 28-14 in the Cup Quarterfinals and then San Mateo did the same with NYAC 33-14 in the Plate Semis. Finally, NYAC clinched the 7th. place beating Metropolis 47-7.
Source: Rugby7.com
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