Seasonal Variations in the Winning Scores of Matches in the Sevens World Series

K. Michele van Rooyen

International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport, 2016, vol. 16, issue 1, 290-304

Abstract: Sevens rugby has evolved considerably over recent years. There is plenty of information showing how the sport has grown across the globe. However, data pertaining to how the game itself has developed is scarce. This study aimed to document how points scored and conceded by winning teams varied over time in the Sevens World Series. Winning teams scored fewer points from 2006/2007 onwards for pool (pre, 31±1.6 vs. 26±2.1 post) and knockout (pre, 25±1.4 vs. 23±1.1 post) matches. Points conceded increased from 2008/2009 for knockout matches (pre 10±1.4 vs. 12±0.7 post). Categorizing teams according to pool position revealed that the drop in points scored by Cup teams was greater than that of Bowl teams (8pts vs. 5pts respectively) during pool matches. The increase in points conceded occurred during knockout matches involving Bowl teams. Subgroups for points scored were ascribed to specific changes in tournament structures and declines in performance of successful teams, whereas the increase in points conceded coincided with teams adopting a more professional approach to the sport. These factors with additional financial investment have seen the Sevens World Series successfully transition to a professional sport that has an immense following worldwide.

Date: 2016
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DOI: 10.1080/24748668.2016.11868887

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