Following an enthralling Day One of the Olympics Rugby Sevens action, USA Head Coach Mike Friday provides his five talking points from the opening matches.

Ireland, New Zealand, Australia, Argentina and Fiji shone on Day One of the Olympic Rugby Sevens securing back-to-back victories while hosts France were held to a draw with the USA.

“I want to start by saying I’ve never quite been to an event like this where the stands are packed full for the opening match,” said an awestruck Friday.

“It’s an absolute credit to the organisers who saw the rugby tickets sell faster than almost any other event at this year’s Games.

“The stadium was in full voice – absolutely deafening at times, especially when France played and it’s absolutely key that World Rugby capture this level of enthusiasm and support for the short-form game. One of the unusual things about this format is it’s played all in one stadium, something that’s rare in a Sevens event, so all of the supporters are having a great time socialising, although I’ve heard a few complaints about it being a ‘dry’ event with no alcohol sales permitted in the concourse.

“Whilst there’s always the old rivalries on the pitch and we are well aware of where the battle lines are, off the arena the teams are getting on brilliantly under the stands, sharing time together over food and so on. We sat next to the French boys at dinner after our game against them and the camaraderie was outstanding, and that social piece is a really important part of our tournament- long may it continue!”