AUSTRALIA’S women’s team has finished third in the Canada Sevens after defeating France 19-12 in Langford in the third place play-off.

England, meanwhile, on the back of doubles from Heather Fisher and Alice Richardson, smashed New Zealand in the Cup final winning 31-14.

Despite finishing third, Australia is still on track to take out the World Series title.

With one round left, Australia (76) is 12 points clear of second placed New Zealand at the top of the table, and needs to finish in sixth place or higher to secure the country’s maiden sevens World Series crown.

On potentially securing the Sevens World Series in Clermont next month, head coach Tim Walsh said next month’s last tournament remained the focus ahead of the Rio Olympics.

“France is at the forefront of our mind, no doubt about that,” Walsh said.

“Our aim at the start of the season was to perform well at each tournament and then the World Series would take care of itself.

“We would be a very proud team and honoured if we do win the title — it would be the perfect preparation as we head to the Rio Olympics in August.”

France led early after Camille Grassineau crossed in the fifth minute, but Mahalia Murphy put Australia on the scoreboard on the stroke of half time when she crossed for a try and Chloe Dalton added the extras to put them into the lead.

Emilee Cherry then showed great vision and pace to extend the lead when she scored Australia’s second after kicking ahead for herself.

But France levelled the scores at 12-12 after Jessy Tremouliere shrugged away Australian captain Shannon Parry and ran 70 metres to score a fabulous solo try.

Amy Turner scored the matchwinning try for Australia when she scored on full time to seal the win.

Earlier, Australia lost in the semi-final going down to overall winners England 15-5.

While Walsh lamented Australia’s inability to finish off their chances in the semi-final loss to England, he recognised the performances of Dalton and Dom du Toit.

“I was pleased with a few players that stood up over the weekend but the England game was one I really think we should have won,” he said.

“We created enough opportunities.

“I thought Chloe Dalton was outstanding over the weekend and was a player that applied herself really well.

“We talked to her about the areas we think she needs to improve, and like a student, has gone away and come back even better.

“Chloe showed physicality, good speed and her kicking technique and accuracy continues to improve.

“Dom du Toit was another I felt made good strides forward but I have full confidence in the entire playing group we have.”

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