RIO DE JANEIRO _ The U.S. women's rugby sevens team fell out of medal contention with 5-0 quarterfinal loss to powerhouse New Zealand Sunday at Deodoro Stadium.
The difference in the match was a try by Portia Woodman as time expired in the first half.
The Americans now move into the consolation round, facing Fiji Monday afternoon, then either Spain or France to determine final tournament placement.
The U.S. women advanced to the quarterfinals Sunday following a 12-12 draw against top-seeded Australia in the final round of pool play.
"We really came out strong today," said Lauren Doyle, an Eastern Illinois University graduate. "Both of those games were really hard-fought and I'm really proud of our girls."
The American side, which won only one match in the group rounds, was ahead 12-5 as time expired on the stadium clock. In keeping with the sport's rules, Australia was allowed to finish the play and Emma Tonegato pushed her way into the try zone to bring the Aussies within two points. Chloe Dalton scored the conversion, tying the game and securing her country's first-place finish in group play.
The United States played a strong second half, with wing Jessica Javelet scoring two tries.
This weekend marked the debut of Olympic rugby sevens. The game was last played in the 1924 Olympics, when men played the sport's 15-a-side version.
