Secret to Blitzbokke's composure

 

Powell's team moved to the top of the Sevens World Series standings by beating New Zealand in the final at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Port Elizabeth on Sunday.

 

It was their second conseuctive title after claiming the spoils in Dubai the week before, and puts them in a great position heading into Round Four of the series in Wellington in February.

 

It was also their second straight win on home soil, having won in emotional circumstances last year following the death of Nelson Mandela, so Powell knew that his side would have to be focused if they were to back that up.

 

“We used sport psychologist Dr. Jannie Botha this week and it helped the guys to stay focused in a week full of the pressure that comes with hosting the tournament," he explained.

 

Having seen off England, Australia and New Zealand in the knock-out phases on Sunday, Powell said that his team had been tested thoroughly.

 

“We had to dig deep. We had three very worthy opponents today and each asked very different questions. We had to come from behind in each match today, but this team has shown they have the determination and belief to succeed," he said.

 

Young Bulls fullback Warwick Gelant made his Sevens debut in Dubai, so he has won both tournaments that he has played in, and is looking forward to adding to that tally.

 

"It is back to back wins for me now in my first two tournaments, it is an incredible feeling but the most important thing is that we still keep on going," he said.

 

Veteran Frankie Horne said that it was particularly satisfying for him to see the new generation of players come through and thrive under pressure.

 

"For me especially to see youngsters come through like Werner Kok, Kwagga Smith and Ruhan Nel, it just makes the journey worthwhile.

 

"To see these guys build and become the players that they are today is just phenomenal," he said.

 

As series leaders the Blitzbokke go through as top seeds to the next round in New Zealand in February and will face the USA, France and Japan.