The Springboks have triumphed in
Paris over
England. The colossal match played out in front of 65,000 spectators and watched by more than 100 million world-wide television viewers had the whole world on the edge of their seats during the 82 minute match.
The thrilling final was a closely fought game from the off with South Africa striking first blood with a superbly taken penalty. England responded within 10 minutes with another and drew level.
South Arica’s defense was strong from the start and England struggled to break into the Springboks 22 yard line during most of the match.
Slowly as South Africa pulled away through the help of needless penalties, it was clear that England were failing to penetrate their defense and the gap was widening.
England began the second half with more vigor scoring a penalty brining their total to 6 against South Africa’s 12 but it was evident that their efforts were futile as the gap continued to widen.
As the closing minutes drew ever nearer, England’s efforts were met with an ever impenetrable wall of green and yellow at every attempt.
Finally it was South Africa who edged ahead and clinched the match to become World Champions.
The Springboks had brought a consistency to the tournament that the likes of Australia, New Zealand and France could not match and provide the stiffest test yet of England's newfound form.
England, having already been trounced by South Afirca 36-0 at the start of the tournament. England had to show their inner strength to face the Springboks again.
