The second round of the Swiss Super Sevens took place just over the border in France on Saturday, where Luzern once again triumphed to keep their 100% record in this year’s competition intact. In bright sunshine and excellent rugby conditions, with the usual excellent hospitality provided by CERN rugby club, a brilliant day’s rugby was had by all – in Luzern’s case capped off by a convincing first place.
7 teams took part, including two teams provided by the hosts. Luzern were in the smaller group, with CERN 1 and a new addition in the University of Lausanne. The ‘students’ were up first and provided a good test. Tabea was able to make her debut and everyone got to play at some point. A convincing 38-0 victory gave a good standard to carry on for the rest of the day, including a try for the debut girl.
Next up was CERN, who were determined to put on a performance in front of their home crowd. A tough match ensued, but Luzern were clinical in their finishing, winning 35-0.
After a long lunch break, we would face Zurich in the semi-finals. Recognising Zurich’s strength up front, particularly in the middle, Luzern spread the ball wide at every opportunity and blew the opposition away in an excellent opening half with 4 tries. An early score in the second half meant the game was over and Luzern kept Zurich from registering any points with a solid defensive performance, 29-0.
The final would be contested once again between Bern and Luzern. As in the semi-final, a powerful early start allowed Luzern to take control of the game. Three tries, one at the start of the second half, meant the job was done and only an excellent individual late score from Bern meant Luzern conceded points for the first and only time. 19-5 the final score.
With just one more tournament to play, Luzern are in a good position to retain their overall Swiss Super Sevens title. However, there is still plenty of improvement to be had and any complacency will be punished in Geneva. The mentality of these players is far too strong to take the opposition lightly, so we can go South in 5 weeks time with confidence but expectation of a huge battle ahead.
Big thanks to CERN for the great food and drink, also with the live music provided. Everyone 
Angel of the Tournament: Carien – despite playing in several positions, stuck to her task brilliantly, tackled hard, ran well and played like someone with many years of rugby experience
Devil of the Tournament: Mirjam – to be unavailable in Constanz the weekend before due to a long-arranged brunch with old friends, then miss it through over-sleeping… well… only one ‘winner’ here!
Beers for: Tabea. First match and scored two tries, one in her debut game and the other as an honorary member of University of Lausanne, helping them get their only positive result (a draw) v Basel. Great work!
Squad
Carien
Carole
Edith
Esti
Julia
Jen
Lea
Marlen
Mirjam
Sarah S
Tabea
Written by Luke