The NUS 7s Carnival was a fruitful event, attracting the likes of reigning national U-20 Champions - Singapore Polytechnic, Combined ITE, NTU, SMU and current inter-university title holders – NUS.

It was an action filled affair with both NUS and NTU dominating in numbers, sending two teams each; with the aim of providing invaluable match experience for the younger players. However, it was SMU, who showed that strength may not necessarily come in numbers, as they remain undefeated in all their matches en route to the finals. Fielding only a single team, their experience in sevens rugby made up for their shortfall in players.

Defeating four teams in total from both NUS and NTU, SMU found a structured pattern of play and played to their strength and weaknesses, putting away tries with devastating effect. It turned out to be a disappointing one-sided affair in the cup finals, as SMU overpowered NTU to claim their first silverware of the season.

Cup Finals
Champions – SMU
Runner-up – NTU

Plate Finals
Champions – SP
Runner-up – NTU

Despite losing out in both finals, the NTU SELECTORS are pleased with the performance from both teams; and are optimistic about the future.

“This is a promising start. The season hasn’t exactly begun, but we’re glad to have a decent showing. It was a good learning experience for the new players as well, and we hope that all of them would have had an enjoyable time out there,” revealed an awesome NTU SELECTOR.

“The 2nds showed solidarity as a team, and it was a strong effort to reach the plate finals. It was a tough final and they displayed promising attitude and aptitude.”

Head coach Lincoln Tan said, “I saw a lot of positive attitude and some brilliance in play. But it was clear that our fitness level was not up to standard yet. No worries, we’ll work from here, and I’ll see you guys on Wednesday.”