Rugby
KweséESPN staff 6y

Du Preez and Gans keen on Las Vegas defense

Rugby, World Rugby Sevens Series

Springbok Sevens players Branco du Preez and Stedman Gans are returning to the scene of happy memories for them when the Las Vegas Sevens takes place this weekend.

Last year, Du Preez played in his 50th tournament for the Blitzboks in the Sam Boyd Stadium and to add to the occasion, claimed a gold medal as South Africa won the tournament.

Gans, meanwhile, made his Blitzboks debut at the same tournament after travelling to the USA as replacement player and then taking over from the injured Justin Geduld.

"This is one of my favourite tournaments, no doubt," admitted Du Preez in an SA Rugby press release. The 27-year-old playmaker has been part of three tournament-winning squads at this leg of the World Rugby Sevens Series.

"I like the fact that the pitch is slightly smaller and play a bit more direct. We have done well in the past and I am determined to contribute to another successful effort."

Du Preez also talked about the togetherness being fostered in the Blitzboks squad: "We are a bunch of friends, doing our best for each other and this tournament is just another opportunity to do that."

In 2017, Gans would have been happy just to get a taste of the Blitzboks set-up when he travelled to the Last Vegas Sevens. Instead, he made his debut and played his part in the tournament win.

"I was pleased then to be part of the team and I am pretty pleased to be here now," said Gans in the build-up to this year's tournament.

"Every moment with this squad is special for me and as I grow into my role and responsibilities into the team, I treasure it even more. It is such an honour playing for your country and to do it with these guys, makes it even more special."

Gans hopes to become a permanent fixture in the squad: "I am getting more and more time on the field, and I am keen to use that to my advantage. Every time I take to the field is another opportunity to contribute and I cannot wait to do so again this weekend."

The Springbok Sevens team are currently leading the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series after tournaments in Dubai, Cape Town, Sydney and Hamilton. The next tournament, after Las Vegas, is next weekend in Vancouver.

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