New Zealand have defeated England 34-31 in a World Cup final that many are describing as the greatest game of rugby they have ever seen.
In front of their own fans, the Black Ferns clinched their record sixth world cup victory and their fifth final victory over the English. This may have been the first time the Black Ferns have come into the match as underdogs, but like any New Zealand side, they should never be underestimated.
The Red Roses started as the better side, taking an early lead and looking to be well on top of the game. That was until a quarter of the way through the game, when referee Hollie Davidson brandished a red card to England winger, Lydia Thompson.
Another incredible drive from @EnglandRugby 🏉
4 tries to two.
England’s forwards are in overdrive right now! 🚗 #RWC2021 #NZLVSENG pic.twitter.com/mFFM7B6WbW
— ITV Rugby (@ITVRugby) November 12, 2022
From then on the tide started to turn, with New Zealand showing the wonderful running rugby they are so famous for. The one-person advantage started to show in the second half, as the Black Ferns took the lead for the first time in the match. The game was on a knife edge from then on, with both sides swapping scores in an exhausting match that couldn’t be pinned one way or the other.
A hattrick in the final!
A proud moment for @amycokayne
Red Roses now back in front.. t his game….#RWC2021 #NZLVSENG pic.twitter.com/51j9O5nBkN
ADVERTISEMENT— ITV Rugby (@ITVRugby) November 12, 2022
New Zealand are back in front!
This game can change in the blink of an eye.. 👀
8 minutes remaining… #RWC2021 #NZLVSENG pic.twitter.com/ufYNP9EbQD
— ITV Rugby (@ITVRugby) November 12, 2022
As the clock got ever closer to the eighty, the Red Roses had the opportunity to level the scores with a penalty. With nothing less than a win on their mind they elected to go for the corner.
It was not to be however, as their usually solid lineout was undone as New Zealand regained possession to become world champions once again.
Heartbreak for England yet again… 💔
What a game. What an occasion.
New Zealand are World Cup champions 🇳🇿#RWC2021 #NZLVSENG pic.twitter.com/QSZQawGbo9
— ITV Rugby (@ITVRugby) November 12, 2022
Following the match, there were scenes of jubilation from the Kiwis, but also immense pride from the English.
“So proud of the team, we never gave up, one result doesn’t define the team that we are.”@sarah_hunter8 gives her immediate reaction after England’s defeat in the #RWC2021 final pic.twitter.com/lUtbJQpvOj
— ITV Rugby (@ITVRugby) November 12, 2022
This is what it’s all about. Inspiring the next generation 👏@rubytui is a legend 🙌
(@rugbyworldcup 🎥)
— ITV Rugby (@ITVRugby) November 12, 2022
“we’re not going anywhere!”
She can play 7s, she can play 15s, and she can sing!
Rubi Tui does it all! 💯#RWC2021 #NZLVSENG pic.twitter.com/GqWxyleTm3
— ITV Rugby (@ITVRugby) November 12, 2022
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