France scored the first points courtesy of the boot of Hugo Reus – who was also the top points scorer for the second tournament running.  However, England scored the first try when forward Joe Baily powered over the line close to half-time and Sean Kerr converting (after missing two penalty kicks).

Another penalty kick from Reus made things fairly even at half-time with England one point up at 7 – 6.

It was all England though in the second half, their clinical performance frustrating France’s number eight Mathis Castro Ferreira and ultimately sending him to the sin bin and England gathering three more penalty points. They then scored their second try when replacement Arthur Green went over the line for England’s second try.  

Two more accurate penalty kicks by Sean Kerr put France out of the running and secured the victory for England.  Les Bleuets did have the final say, however, with Mathis Ferté scoring their only try in the dying seconds of the match. 

New Zealand took third place in the tournament, thanks to an emphatic 38 – 24 win over Ireland.  The Kiwis were down 12 – 0 before an inspiring come-back against a determined Irish team.

Argentina claimed fifth place with a 14 – 6 win over Australia in difficult conditions at Athlone Stadium. 

South Africa also restored some pride, beating Wales by 47 – 31 to claim seventh place.  The Junior Boks lead 19 – 5 at half-time, after dominating the first half completely.  Captain Zach Porthen (2), Sibabalwe Mahashe (2), JF van Heerden, Bathobele Hilekani and Asad Moos all scored for South Africa.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger