Cape Town - The Blitzboks have lost their first match of the Paris Sevens, going down 14-12 to Scotland.

It was a difficult match for the Sevens World Series defending champions as they were starved of the ball for large periods. 

The sides went into the break locked at 7-7, but the Blitzboks looked to have stolen a win when substitute Seabelo Senatla scored. 

Scotland, though, hit back with the final play of the game to tie things up at 12-12, and when Robbie Fergusson knocked over the conversion from out left, the Blitzboks had been stunned. 

Neil Powell's men need to win this tournament to stand any chance of defending their World Series title, and they will have to win their remaining two pool games to ensure progression through to the Cup quarter-finals. 

South Africa are next in action when they take on Russia in their second pool match at 13:02 (SA time).

Earlier on Saturday, Russia lost 33-7 to Canada.

Scorers:

SA 12 (7)

Tries: Justin Geduld, Seabelo Senatla

Conversion: Geduld

Scotland 14 (7)

Tries: Robbie Fergusson, Harvey Elms

Conversion: Fergusson (2)