Successful sevens sojourn sets up Kibirige’s Pre Season
Falcons’ winger Zach Kibirige enjoyed a successful weekend in Lyon with the England 7s team as he and his team mates lifted the plate trophy in the second Rugby Europe Seven’s Grand Prix series event of the summer.
Kibirige, who was a late call up into the squad following the round one tournament in Moscow, thoroughly enjoyed his experience and saw his involvement as a useful precursor to the Falcons pre season preparations which get under way in the coming weeks.
“It was a really good experience, there was a really good atmosphere and the standard of rugby was really, really good. A lot of the other nations there were busy trying to qualify for the Rio Olympics, which England had already done, so there weren’t any easy games.”
England started the tournament in Lyon brightly with a 17-5 win over Wales followed by a 19 all draw against Belgium and a closely-fought 21-24 loss to Russia.
Taking on Spain in the quarter finals on day two, a 26-5 defeat send England into the plate competition, which they duly won by defeating both Italy and Russia.
For the Yarm born flyer though, getting more game time under his belt was of equal importance as he looks to stake a claim to spot in the Falcons team next season.
“When the call came, it was definitely a yes, because you never think twice about representing your country if the opportunity is there, but it was also about getting some game time and keep my skills sharp and getting my legs back to playing.”
“I felt really good out there, even though on day one it was boiling hot! There are quite a few things that need sharpening up but physically, I felt pretty good.”
“It was good to pull on an England shirt again and it’s hopefully an experience I’ll get a chance to repeat, but now it’s all about having a good pre season and featuring for the club.”
Having enjoyed a successful sevens in Lyon, Zach could be in action in the Singha Premiership Rugby 7s series held at Kingston Park on Saturday 22nd August.
The Group C competition will see the Falcons take on Leicester Tigers, Sale Sharks and Worcester Warriors in defence of the group title as the aim to qualify for the series finals at the Twickenham Stoop.
Tickets for the tournament are on sale now, with adult prices from £10 and Under 16s from £5. To book, [click here][1], call 0871 2266060 or visit the Kingston Park box office.
[1]: https://www.eticketing.co.uk/newcastle-falcons/details/event.aspx?itemref=2780
