Rugby World Cup Sevens
England make winning start in Moscow
ESPN Staff
June 28, 2013
Fiji cruised to a 45-0 in their opening fixture against Tonga © Getty Images
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England kicked off their 2013 Rugby World Cup Sevens campaign with a 21-7 win against Portugal at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow on Friday.

Two tries from John Brake and another from Tom Mitchell propelled Ben Ryan's side to their opening victory but they ended the day second in Pool F due to Argentina's 47-7 thrashing of Hong Kong.

Defending champions Wales also made a winning start with two tries from Chris Knight helping them to a comprehensive 33-5 victory over Uruguay. But they trail Pool E leaders Fiji who swept Tonga aside 45-0 in their clash with Watisoni Votu and Waisea Nayacalevu both grabbing two tries.

HSBC Sevens World Series champions New Zealand head Pool D following their 31-12 win against Canada with Sherwin Stowers claiming two of their five tries. The USA also remain on course for the knock out stages having held off a second half comeback from Georgia to claim a 26-19 win in their clash.

Kenya lead Pool C following their 45-5 victory over tournament debutants Philippines with Felix Ayange and Humphrey Kayange both bagging a brace. Samoa sit second after seeing off a determined Zimbabwe 21-14.

South Africa lead Pool B thanks to their 31-0 victory over hosts Russia with Seabelo Senatla crossing for two tries. Pool B rivals Scotland edged out Japan 19-17 in their opener thanks to tries from Chris Dean, Andrew Turnbull and Michael Fredo.

Australia also came through their first game unscathed with tries from Matt Lucas, Bernard Foley and Lewis Holland firing them to a 21-0 win over Pool A rivals Spain. France lie second following their 24-7 victory over Tunisia with Julien Candelon, Terry Bouhraoua, Steeve Barry and Jonathan Laugel all scoring.

The pool stages continue on Saturday with the knock-out stages scheduled for Sunday. Click here for full details.

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