Australia clinched the opening round of the HSBC World Rugby Women's Sevens Series in Dubai on Friday defeating Russia 33-12 at The Sevens Stadium.

Despite losing their inspirational captain Sharni Williams to injury on day two, the girls in gold remained unbeaten all through the tournament.

Tries from Amy Turner and Nicole Beck gave Australia a 10-0 lead but Russia hit back with Alena Mikhaltsova's effort on the stroke of half-time and then hit the front after Marina Petrova's try.

It was left to one of the quickest women in the series in Ellia Green to provide the spark and Australia secured the title in style after further tries from Green, Emilee Cherry and Evania Pelite. 

Speaking after the final whistle, winning Australian captain Shannon Parry said: "That was an epic final and to play in front of such a crowd in Dubai was absolutely sensational. We've put a lot of hard work into pre-season and I was really proud of our performance. I'm looking forward to the next round (in Brazil) and then onwards towards Rio."

Defending champions New Zealand, who were among the sides beaten by Russia on day one of the Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens, were knocked out of the cup by Australia in the quarter-finals.

Russia beat Spain in their quarter-final, before clinching their semi-finals against England with a last minute try.

In yet another thrilling day of rugby in the Dubai heat, New Zealand won the Plate final by beating Canada after extra time.

The Plate final proved to be a thriller as Canada started strongly only for New Zealand, who until now had never failed to reach the title decider in Dubai, to battle back and at full-time it was locked at 19-19.

The golden points were always going to come from something special and that was Gayle Broughton’s dancing feet to secure victory.

The third place spot went to England who also had to go to extra time to beat France, and the Bowl final was won by series newcomers Japan.

England had their noses in front at the break but a late France score from Camille Grassineau gave France the chance to steal the game.

Christelle le Duff’s conversion didn’t reach the posts and golden points ensued.

England launched attack after attack and they eventually broke down the French defensive wall thanks to the bulldozing running of Heather Fisher.

World Rugby Chief Executive Brett Gosper said: "Congratulations to Australia who beat a very skilful Russian side here in Dubai this evening. Across the tournament the standard was raised yet again in the women's sevens game.

"Inclusion in the Olympic Games inclusion has been massive, and the standards are incredible. To see a packed house here at the Sevens Stadium enjoy this final was just rewards for all the hard work teams have put in. We're in for great season ahead," he added.

The action now moves to Sao Paulo in Brazil next February, when the 12 teams battle it out as the Road to Rio gets shorter.