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Australia kick off Sevens campaign with win over Portugal
March 06, 2009 Australia made a solid start to their Rugby World Cup Sevens campaign by downing Portugal 24-12 in their first Pool match in Dubai.
Richard Kingi opened Australia's account with a try and kicked the conversion to make it 7-0 at the break.
Australia found their rhythm in the second half with Henry Vanderglas, Damon Murphy and Brian Sefanaia all running in five-pointers, while Portugal could only manage 12 points.
Coach Michael O'Connor said he was relieved the Australians got a way with the win.
"Portugal is a good side, the last time we played them under 12 months ago they beat us quite comfortably in London," O'Connor said.
"They have done very well in recent tournaments and it was never going to be an easy game for us.
"The players showed a lot of commitment and courage in defence. They really didn't have much form in the first half."
Australia next meet Ireland on Friday and play their last pool match against Samoa later that evening.
AAP