Sevens women advance in season opener

The Australians have stayed unbeaten - just - as they secured a quarter-final berth in the season-opening Women's Rugby Sevens World Series event in Glendale, Colorado.

Big wins over Spain (31-5) and Fiji (35-7) were followed by a nail-biting draw with Canada (26-26) as Australia topped their pool to set up a clash with Russia on Sunday.

Emma Tonegato kicked off her campaign with a hat-trick in the opening match while Charlotte Caslick was able to match that feat in the dominant win over Fiji.

The Aussies traded tries with Canada and had the upper hand until the Canadians scored to snatch a late draw in a pulsating contest.

Maddy Ashby made her World Series debut coming off the bench during Australia's win over Spain, becoming the 56th player to represent the team at the World Series.

Favourites New Zealand were also unbeaten with big wins over Japan (40-7), Russia (40-12) and England 36-0) and will face Ireland in their quarter-final.