The Canadian FISU men's seven's team came up two points short against Japan in the World University Games Plate final in Porto, Portugal on Saturday.

Boasting UVic Vikes men's rugby players Adam Timler and Angus MacKay, the FISU squad opened day four against a skilled Belgium lineup in the Plate semis and came away with a 24-7 decision.

"The team applied superior pressure and hounded Belgium into retreat," Canadian team manager Rick Farrally said after Canada advanced to the Plate final.

Tries came courtesy of Ryan Wilkes, Rich Lebel, Mike Davis, Ross Yellowlees with University of Western Ontario standout Rory Tomlinson kicking two conversions.

The Plate final was a rematch of Canada's final round robin game which saw Japan slip away with a 17-12 victory.

The Canadians came out in full force and had three tries at the break. The Canucks maintained their lead into the dying seconds but some relentless work at the breakdown eventually saw Japan dot down in the far corner to capture the Plate with a 24-22 victory.