Thailand in a class of their own

The Thai women’s team gave nigh on a faultless display of sevens rugby last weekend, with a level of skill and a tactics superior to some of the men’s team competing in the Asian Rugby Sevens Series.

Unfortunately for them several teams withdrew from the tournament and the other two teams who attended have extremely limited rugby experience, let alone at an international standard. India and Malaysia tackled fearlessly and every last player gave it their best shot, but frankly they had no answer to the Thai machine.

Thailand heading for yet another try

In five games they racked up 210 points; that’s three points every minute! In doing so, they conceded not a single score. Their handling, passing, lines of running, speed and organization were first class and the opposition was virtually chasing shadows. This was exemplified when one of the Thai team shimmied between two Malaysian defenders, whose pace and execution did not match their bravery. They collided, with both players having to leave the field with head injuries, while the Thai player bagged another five pointer.

Gotcha

Malaysia and India played each other twice, with the more physical Indians eventually gaining the upper hand on both occasions. Due to the inferior ball handling skill level, the attacking team was often closed down quickly and this led to far less expansive rugby and a multitude of infringements.

Missed

Neither of these sides lack heart though and one thing is abundantly clear above all else; these girls have a passion for the game. If the representatives of these to countries are indicative of the enthusiasm for the game amongst women in Malaysia and India then the future in both countries is very bright indeed.

Surrounded

Thailand 52 0 Malaysia

India 21 10 Malaysia

Thailand 39 0 India

India 10 5 Malaysia

Thailand 43 0 India

Thailand 35 0 Malaysia

Thailand 41 0 India (Final)

Images courtesy: ZZEBRA Public Relations Private Limited and Benno Ong

This article is also available in the following Country/s. Malaysia, India