Nathan Hirayama had a leading role in the host nation winning the Bowl title at the inaugural HSBC Canada Sevens on the weekend in front of a boisterous crowd at B.C. Place Stadium.
The Richmond native finished second in tournament scoring with 52 points as Canada captured the consolation draw with three straight victories Sunday after being squeezed out of a quarter-final berth in the 16-country event which was part of the World Series tour.
Canada captured the Bowl final with a dramatic 19-17 victory over France.
It seemed the hosts would fall just short of a win when France had possession with time up and a 17-12 lead. But up stepped John Moonlight with a powerful finish before Hirayama slotted the crucial two points that completed the comeback.
Earlier, he scored a spectacular try to the thrill of Canadian fans.
“This has been great. It's been something we've been looking forward to since it was announced,” said the 27-year-old McRoberts graduate. “We were really up for the weekend and while we were disappointed not to be playing for the cup, we came out and won three games today.”
Canada began Bowl play Sunday morning with 19-0 win over Brazil, then secured a spot in the final with a 17-7 win against England. Tries from Mike Fuailefau and Hirayama in the second half broke a 7-7 deadlock.
In pool play Saturday, Canada opened 26-19 loss to Wales, then upset Australia 14-12. Hirayama scored the opening try of the match and kicked the winning points after a late try from Adam Zaruba.
Canada then defeated Russia 26-12 but lost out on a tiebreaker for a spot in the eight-team championship draw.
New Zealand defeated South Africa 19-14 in the Cup final. The two-day event attracted over 60,000 fans.
“I can't criticize our performances. We were very consistent. You win five of your six games in any World Series tournament it's an exceptional achievement,” said Canadian head coach Liam Middleton. “They’ve shown great character and ability this weekend.
“What a phenomenal tournament. Tournament's are made by spectators and this is the best crowd we've ever seen on the World Series. This has been the best tournament in the series so far.”
The World Series continues next month in Hong Kong. Canada also has Olympic qualifying in June.
