KUALA LUMPUR: New Zealand Cavaliers emerged champions of the Borneo Sevens after downing hosts Borneo Eagles 19-12 in the final in Sandakan today.
Eagles scored the first try in the opening minute but both sides would end the first half deadlocked at 12-all.
Cavaliers, however, found their momentum in the second half and were able to make it count when it mattered.
Cavaliers captain Lewis Ormond praised Eagles after the match and is looking forward to coming back to Sandakan.
"We will definitely come back next year to defend our title. It was an experience for some of our boys, who have never travelled abroad and they are happy to experience a new culture," said Ormond.
The women's category witnessed Borneo Flyers defending their title after beating Uzbekistan 40-0.
Flyers captain Dhys Faleafaga said she was proud of her teammates.
"They made my job as captain very easy as they are really good (players). I see so much potential here," she said.
Cavaliers and Flyers pocketed US$5,000 (RM23,425), respectively, for their wins, while runners-up in both categories took home US$2,000 (RM9,370) each.
Youth and Sports Minister Hannah Yeoh presented the prizes to the teams.