Manu Samoa 7s have started their Vancouver 7s campaign with a strong statement as they hammered Australia 31-7 in their opening pool game.

Samoa drew first blood with Motu Opetai in the third minute to lead 7-0. It took Australia until the buzzer at halftime to draw level.

The second half was one-way pressure as Samoa crossed over four times. Steve Onosai in the 10th minute and Opetai a minute later.

Tom Maiava scored in the 13th minute and Vaovasa Afa Sua rounded up the game with a final try.

Earlier on France defeated USA 24-12, Great Britain beat Ireland 17-14, and South Africa beat New Zealand 21-12.

Samoa’s next game is against France at 4.40 pm.