Aussie sevens boys flex their muscles

Australia's rugby sevens team have underlined their Olympic claims by blitzing all-comers on the opening day of the Oceania regional qualifier in Auckland.

The Thunderbolts easily swatted aside Nauru (62-0), Cook Islands (46-7) and Tonga (54-0) to be in perfect shape for Sunday's knockout action.

Tonga were expected to provide the most competition in pool action but were never in the third hit-out as Australian captain Ed Jenkins crossed after just 20 seconds.

The world No.5-ranked Thunderbolts went on to run in eight converted tries to send an ominous warning to main qualifying rival Samoa.

The two unbeaten sides are on a collision course in the final at the eight-nation tournament where only the final's victor will book a spot at next year's Rio Games.

Samoa swept aside Solomon Islands (48-0), American Samoa (50-0) and Papua New Guinea (41-7).

As well as posting the most points (162) on day one and only conceding one try, caretaker Australian coach Tim Walsh - who gave all 12 players match action - can be well pleased at avoiding any injuries.

Australia's women's team, coached by Walsh, has already qualified for Rio.