Rugby: RP Volcanoes shine in Hong Kong Sevens despite losses to world's best

The Philippines wrapped up their Hong Kong Sevens debut Sunday with a 22-5 loss against world number 21 Uruguay at the Hong Kong Stadium, but their performance in the tournament affirmed their ability to play against the world's best.   In its final ranking match in the annual tournament, Uruguay started the game strong, outscoring the Philippines 10-0 by the break.  In the second half, Uruguay scored two more tries to widen the gap at 22-0, but before the final whistle sounded, RP Volcano Patrice Olivier helped his squad avoid a shutout, scoring one try for a 22-5 result.   The match against Uruguay capped off a historic run for the Philippine Volcanoes, who faced the best rugby teams at the most prestigious seven-a-side tournament in the world.   The Philippine campaign began with an opening day loss against world number 13 Canada on Friday, 33-5. On Saturday morning, the Philippines faced number 19 Spain and lost 21-5. Later in the afternoon, the Volcanoes went up 12-0 before suffering from a second half rally by the 33rd-ranked Zimbabe, to drop their last game in Pool E, 21-17.   Throughout the three days, the 71st-ranked Volcanoes showed that they can put up a fight against some of the best in the world, despite the squad’s relative inexperience.   With their competitive performance in the Hong Kong Sevens, the Philippines is expected to rise in the International Rugby Board rankings. The Volcanoes will also get another opportunity to climb even higher next month, when Manila hosts the Asian 5 Nations Division 1 Championships from April 15-21 at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex. – AMD, GMA News