Team GB agonisingly missed out on the chance to claim the first ever Olympic medal in women’s rugby sevens after a bitter 33-10 defeat to Canada in the bronze medal match.
Up against the same opponents they had beaten 22-0 in their final group game; Team GB went in as the favourites but suffered an early setback as Canada opened the scoring and converted.
Danielle Waterman struck back with a slick try to cut the deficit to two points but three blisteringly quick scores from Canada that coincided with captain Emily Scarratt getting sin-binned put Team GB at a huge 26-5 deficit at half-time.
Team GB fought back strongly earlier in the second half and pressure told as Jasmine Joyce crossed in the corner after some great build up play but following a quick turnover, Canada killed off the game with a converted try three minutes from time.
Despite the deficit, Team GB continued to battle through to the end but the solid Canadian defence held out to give them the win.
“We came into this tournament wanting to win a medal and unfortunately we have come up a little bit short,” said Scarratt following her side’s disappointment.
“The girls gave it everything but sometimes it is just not enough and it wasn’t tonight.
“They were the better side in that game. They executed better than we do and that is why they will have the medal around their necks.
“Sevens is a brutal game. You have to perform for 20 minutes and you can win it or lose it in a couple of minutes.
“Canada kept the ball well and recycled it superbly and that is why they got the win.
“It is disappointment at the moment but this has been a phenomenal experience and bringing rugby to the Olympic stage is amazing.
“If we have inspired a couple of people back home then we are doing a decent job.
“We are just sorry we couldn’t bring home a medal.”