The USA women’s 7s team was unstoppable in Day Two action at the Dubai 7s.

Paced by a very physical approach and some strong running from Kristi Kirshe, the Eagles dispatched Russia 33-14 and Canada 34-10.

You could see how the book on the Eagles was that they could be out-physicaled, because both Russia and Canada tried to intimidate the Americans with hard hits, moving up quickly, and aggressive counter-rucks. None of it worked.

Russia did score first against the USA, but the Eagles continued to work their offloads and use them to switch their attacking angles. A brilliant break by Alev Kelter set up Lauren Doyle, and some elusive running from Kris Thomas put the USA ahead.

Kelter was monstrous in this game and scored twice.

Against Canada, the Eagles handled Canada’s rush defense well, staying in control and making the ball available. The offloads started to connect, and Kirshe was very agressive in her running.

But the highlight was probably Cheta Emba, who was Danny Barrett except she went to Harvard. Emba made a tackle, strip, and run to the line for one try, and then unleashed the mother of all power-steps to thunder over a Canadian tackler and gallop to the corner for another.

Canada was a little offside in jumping after the halfback, but the USA didn’t care. Canada was tackling high; the USA didn’t care. Canada tried off-the-ball stuff; that’s right, the USA didn’t care and kept playing rugby superbly.

Next up:

The Eagles play Russia in a rematch in the Cup Quarterfinals.

Also advancing to the top eight:

Australia vs Spain

France vs Canada

Fiji vs New Zealand

France has been looking very good.