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Cape Town - New Zealand have beaten the Blitzboks 12-7 in the second period of extra-time in a truly epic Cup semi-final at the Hong Kong Sevens.
The Blitzboks had New Zealand under early pressure with Tim Agaba collecting a loose ball to go over under the posts in the 2nd minute for a 7-0 lead.
Although there was no further scoring in the first half, it was a huge tussle with both teams not prepared to take a step back.
The second half started out with New Zealand having much of the possession.
They eventually made that possession count when scoring in the left-hand corner through Lewis Ormond.
Gillies Kaka converted brilliant from a tight angle to bring the scores level at 7-7.
No further scoring meant the teams went into extra-time with the first to score guaranteed victory.
The epic battle continued in the first extra time period with New Zealand losing Isaac Te Tamiki for a late tackle on Seabelo Senatla. The Blitzboks could not take advantage of the extra man, however.
In the second period of extra time, the Blitzboks started on the front foot but two breakdown penalties snuffed out any momentum.
A brilliant kick into open space by New Zealand then forced Branco du Preez to kick the ball dead.
With his side now on the front foot Kurt Baker found Regan Ware out the left wing with a pin-point cross-kick and he cantered over to break Blitzboks hearts.
The Blitzboks will now face Australia in the third placed play-off match.
