News - UK Olympics
England women secure Olympic qualification
ESPN Staff
May 23, 2015
Emily Scarratt poses for a portrait during the IRB Women's Rugby World Cup 2014 photocall
Emily Scarratt poses for a portrait during the IRB Women's Rugby World Cup 2014 photocall© Photo by Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images

England Women clinched Olympic qualification on behalf of Great Britain with a dramatic 15-14 victory against USA at the Sevens World Series in Amsterdam.

Simon Middleton's side lost 26-0 to Australia in the semi-finals and, after the USA fell to Canada at the same stage, the bronze medal match became a straight shootout for the final automatic qualification place at Rio 2016, where Rugby Sevens will be making its debut. Australia, Canada and New Zealand had already booked their places in Brazil.

Tries from Marlie Packer, Emily Scarratt and a decisive score by Jo Watmore secured victory for England. USA responded through Megan Bonny and a last-gasp effort from Alev Kelter, but it was England who held firm for glory.

England started their day with comprehensive wins against China and Russia, but were beaten 24-7 by Australia in their pool decider.

That meant England needed to beat World Series champions New Zealand in the quarter-final to keep their Olympic dream alive, but they were unfazed as Middleton's team ran out 17-14 winners.

It means Great Britain will take both men's and women's Sevens teams to Brazil, after Simon Amor's side secured their plane tickets at the final round in London earlier in May.

© ESPN Staff

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