Fiji have been beaten by South Africa 29-24 in extra time in the final of the US leg of the World Sevens Series in Los Angeles.
The Fijians, who were looking to secure back to back titles for the first time this season, had led 19-0 and looked to be cruising before the Blitzbokke launched their comeback, scoring two quick fire tries to force the game into extra time before scoring another to scoop the title.
Fiji huddle together during the Los Angeles leg of the World Sevens Series. Photo: Mike Lee - KLC fotos for World Rugby
Fiji, who won the previous leg in Sydney four weeks ago, had topped their pool after dispatching South Korea 45-7, France 33-28 and Argentina 28-14 on day one.
Gareth Baber's side then overpowered England 26-5 in the Cup quarter-finals before crushing Australia 43-7 in the semis.
However, the South Africans, buoyed by a 17-0 shutout of New Zealand in their semi-final, overcame the Fijians to take their second title of the season but their first since the opening round in Dubai back in December.
Your #LASevens champions, South Africa
— World Rugby Sevens (@WorldRugby7s) March 2, 2020
What a comeback from the @Blitzboks to secure the trophy! pic.twitter.com/3HKyJdmVZe
Meanwhile, Samoa were beaten 28-12 by Argentina in the ninth place semi final to draw level with Kenya and Scotland in a share of 11th place in the overall standings at the halfway stage of the World Series.
The Manu 7s were pipped 19-17 by the USA in their tournament opener and thumped 31-5 by Australia before beating Scotland 19-14 to record their first win in the pool stage since the opening leg of the season in Dubai.
South Africa's Cecil Afrika is caught by New Zealand's Ngarohi McGarvey-Black during their semi-final win Photo: Mike Lee - KLC fotos for World Rugby
