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Nasser, Shave star as Queensland take opening round of AON Sevens

Queensland have established itself as the team to beat in AON Next Gen Sevens, claiming Round One after a dominant display on the Gold Coast. Australia Sevens debutant Bella Nasser and flyer Kaitlin Shave emerged as players to watch for the future, powering the hosts to an unbeaten start to the five-round competitionHSBC SYDNEY SEVENS TICKET FINAL RELEASE: GET YOUR TICKETS TO RUGBY’S BIGGEST PARTY NOW!NSW looked to set the tempo early with a 31-5 victory over the Rising Stars, set up by a Bridget Clark double as they ran away with the game in the second half.However, the day was controlled by Queensland as they started their campaign with a 40-12 victory over the Rising Stars.Nasser was dominant in attack and defence, scoring the first before setting up Shave for the second after a brutal hit led to a turnover.The pair finished with doubles in the comprehensive victory, backing it up straight afterwards against NSW as Shave crossed for a hat-trick during their 41-0 victory.The Uni of Queensland standout scored twice in the first two minutes, both set up by Nasser, who crossed for her own double as they cruised to victory.Further doubles to Nasser and Shave sealed top spot in their rematch with NSW, claiming the 31-7 win.Shave finished the day with nine tries, with the former track star's pace on full display.Despite their winless start, the Rising Stars showed they belonged with a pair of draws against their opponents.A brutal fend from Piper Flynn gave them a shot at beating NSW, however, her conversion from next to the posts sail to the left.A double to Ella Carlisle gave them a late 24-14 lead over Queensland, only for Shave’s seventh try of the tournament levelling it after the siren.A concern for the hosts will be the fitness of Sevens squad member Kahli Henwood, who appeared to injure her ankle during the draw to the Rising Stars.The action heads to Narrabri on February 11 as part of the Santos Festival of Rugby, which includes Super Rugby Pacific and Super W trials between the Queensland Reds and NSW Waratahs