Kiwis a model of consistency
Plaudits flooded in for the New Zealand team after they claimed their 11th ITN Sevens World Series title.
The All Blacks lost to South Africa in the final, going down 21-28, but secured enough points to win their third successive title with one tournament to go in London this coming weekend.
"This is a fantastic result," said Neil Sorensen, New Zealand Rugby’s General Manager Professional Rugby.
"I congratulate Gordon Tietjens, his coaching and management staff and all the players who have contributed this year – this title is fully deserved.
"They have also achieved this despite many injury setbacks to key players."
The team played the final day without Ben Lam and Scott Curry who have been replaced for the London tournament by Matt Faddes and Warwick Lahmert.
They were also without long serving captain DJ Forbes.
"The team has been a model of consistency all season and when you consider that this competition is getting tougher and tougher each year, that is a remarkable achievement."
This season the All Blacks Sevens secured one victory, five second place finishes and finished third, twice, over the eight tournaments played so far.
"I know they will be disappointed not to win in Glasgow, but they will be trying just as hard to win in London this coming weekend to cap off a fantastic season.
"They are also well prepared for their next challenge, to win the Sevens Rugby World Cup in Moscow in late June which is a key goal for the team.
"We are in great shape. Coach Gordon Tietjens has unearthed some exciting young talent for the future which augurs well for the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in 2016."
The Sevens World Series trophy for the 2012/203 season will be presented to the All Blacks Sevens at the conclusion of the London Sevens at Twickenham this weekend.
