Rugby: NZ win fourth consecutive tournament

New Zealand's Steven Yates. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand won their fourth consecutive tournament in the international sevens rugby series when they beat South Africa 27-12 in San Diego today.

South Africa were the only team to trouble them in this United States leg of the series and it took the New Zealanders almost five minutes before they crossed for their first try.

Edwin Cocker scored after New Zealand decided to keep the game tight in the face of stern defence and they committed several opponents into a tackle to free a man outside.

New Zealand's cause was aided by Frankie Horne's sin binning, taking advantage of his absence for two minutes to score two more tries through Victor Vito and captain DJ Forbes.

South Africa came back to score tries on either side of halftime but Zar Lawrence and Forbes crossed for a try each to wrap up the tournament for the runaway series leaders.

New Zealand won the first three tournaments in Dubai, South Africa and New Zealand.

- NZPA