Americans move on
The United States guaranteed itself a spot in the quarterfinals of the Olympic women's rugby tournament, beating Japan 17-7 in the second of three pool play matches.
Tries from Illona Maher, Jordan Gray-Matyas and Ariana Ramsey, along with stifling U.S. defense, kept the Americans' medal hopes very much on track with a 2-0 record.
Japan was unable to muster any kind of offense against the 2019 world runner-ups when it mattered, managing only a consolation try as time expired.
With the win, the U.S. is assured of a top-two position in Pool C, and can win the pool with a victory over Rio 2016 gold medalists Australia in the final pool play match Friday.
Australia handled its business against China, 26-10, to also move to 2-0.
New Zealand charges late to down Brits
The top two contenders in Pool A met in what proved to be the the match of the day as New Zealand, through a last-second try by Michaela Blyde, completed a two-score comeback to down Great Britain 26-21.
New Zealand secured its path forward while Great Britain winds up in a tie for second in the pool with ROC.
Fiji and France notched Group B wins in the day's second session to set themselves up for advancement.
