Lawson makes debut in the Tokyo sevens

They made their debut in Rio in 2016, where they were knocked out in the quarter-finals by South Africa, eventually finishing eighth, so it has been a slight improvement this game.

Southern Districts flyer Nathan Lawson earned his green and gold jersey with a good showing in their final game where Australia 26 defeated Canada 7.

Olympic debutant Nathan Lawson opened the scoring early for the Australians in an impressive display of attacking Rugby.

Canada struck back quickly through Connor Braid. However, Lachlan Anderson broke the Canadian defence to ensure an Australian lead at the break.

Australia captain Nick Malouf was next to cross following a tactical kick through the Canadian defence before Lachie Miller crossed the chalk to give Australia an unassailable lead.

As Australia switched to defence, Dylan Pietsch was sent to the bin for a dangerous tackle. However, Australia held firm to ensure Canada didn't cross for the remainder of the match.

"We came to Tokyo with ambitions to perform at our very best as individuals and as a team. But, unfortunately, we fell short despite our absolute best efforts," Australian Men's Sevens Head Coach Tim Walsh said.

"It has been a challenge and a privilege to work with Rugby Australia to qualify and prepare the team for the Tokyo Olympics.

"The growth, experience and overcoming of the obstacles we faced will undoubtedly prepare us better for future events,"

"I'd like to thank the people of Japan, the AOC and the IOC for allowing us to play in what I suspect is some of the most challenging conditions the games have faced.

"On a special note, I'd also like to congratulate Samu Kerevi on his Australian Sevens debut while also congratulating Nathan Lawson and Dietrich Roache on making their international debuts for Australia."

Australia got through the group stage with a win and a loss and had to play an undefeated New Zealand in a crucial last game to see the final pool a placing.

With a 12-0 lead at halftime, Australia was in a strong position at the break, but the Kiwis came back hard and punishing any mistakes with a 14-12 win.

Finishing as the highest placed third position, they then played reigning gold medalists Fiji who opened up the scoring early, but they were never headed, closing out the Aussies 19-0 and putting them out of medal contention and only playing for a final placing.

The Australian Women's sevens team finished in fifth position at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.