Despite dominating the HSBC World Sevens Series last season, Blitzbok coach Neil Powell and the squad have been focusing on several weaknesses as they prepare for the defence of their title in Dubai in a week. The Blitzboks claimed five of the 10 titles last season, and also made eight finals. They won 82% of their matches — 49 out of 60 with 10 defeats and a draw — and collected 192 log points. Nearest challengers England lost 14 of their 58 matches with two draws for a 72% winning ratio, while Olympic champions Fiji lost 16 of 58 matches with one draw — a 71% winning ratio. But within the season of dominance, the Blitzboks had their shortcomings, particularly against England, who beat SA in the Cape Town and Vancouver finals and twice in pool play. They were the rivals that troubled SA all season. "If you look at losses against England, we gave away possession too easily and they made us pay for it," coach Neil Powell told Business Day. "The key against them is hanging on to the b...
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