Competition got underway overnight, with the first official result being Australia edging Samoa 21-14 in the men’s rugby 7’s. The Aussies started a little sluggish, falling behind early, but three-time Olympian Henry Hutchinson scored 2 tries to lift the side. Later on, while most of the country were sleeping, Australia beat Kenya 21-7.
One of the favourites for gold, Argentina, got 2 comfortable victories, as did Ireland who blew out Japan 40-5. The most dramatic game was the France/USA clash which resulted in a 12-12 draw. Fiji dominated both their games, outscoring opponents 78-24. Ominous signs.
In the men’s soccer, total chaos between Argentina and Morocco. I caught the first half, but recently read about the drama that unfolded later in the game. Argentina thought they had scored the equaliser in extra time, but shortly after players were forced to leave the arena for 2 hours as objects were being thrown on the field and spectators running on. After the major delay, players returned to play the final 3 minutes, the referee said the goal scored prior to the delay was offside, and Morocco held on for a 2-1 win. Wow, not the ideal start.
Other noticeable results included France beating USA 3-0, and Spain edging Uzbekistan 2-1.
Day -1 highlights:
One of the favourites for gold, Argentina, got 2 comfortable victories, as did Ireland who blew out Japan 40-5. The most dramatic game was the France/USA clash which resulted in a 12-12 draw. Fiji dominated both their games, outscoring opponents 78-24. Ominous signs.
In the men’s soccer, total chaos between Argentina and Morocco. I caught the first half, but recently read about the drama that unfolded later in the game. Argentina thought they had scored the equaliser in extra time, but shortly after players were forced to leave the arena for 2 hours as objects were being thrown on the field and spectators running on. After the major delay, players returned to play the final 3 minutes, the referee said the goal scored prior to the delay was offside, and Morocco held on for a 2-1 win. Wow, not the ideal start.
Other noticeable results included France beating USA 3-0, and Spain edging Uzbekistan 2-1.
Day -1 highlights:
- Women’s handball begins at 5pm AEST, with Slovenia taking on Denmark. The Danes are expected to challenge for gold.
- Archery begins at 5:30pm with the women’s individual ranking round. Laura Paeglis will represent Australia. The men begins at 10:15, with Peter Boukouvalas in action.
- Rugby 7’s, Australia vs Argentina at 10:30. Huge match. Two of the contenders, both undefeated last night.
- Rugby 7’s, New Zealand vs Ireland. Two gold medal contenders.
- Rugby 7’s quarter finals start at 5am.
- Matilda’s begin their campaign at 3am, against Germany. Massive ask to start.
