New Zealand try scorer Robert Fruean is tackled during the final against South Africa at Ravenhill

New Zealand try scorer Robert Fruean is tackled during the final against South Africa at Ravenhill
Photo: John Dickson

New Zealand IRB U19 champions

New Zealand have been crowned IRB Under 19 World Champions 2007, defeating South Africa 31-7 in the final at Ravenhill, Belfast.

For match reports, rights-free photos and audio reaction, click here to visit the IRB U19 Division A media centre.

Robert Fruean, Trent Renata and Kade Poki each scored tries in a devastating first-half performance, which gave New Zealand a 17-0 lead at the break.

If South Africa were hoping New Zealand would allow them back into the game in the second half, they were disappointed as their opponents continued their imperious march to the title.

Renata added a second try soon after half time before substitute Jackson Willison added another to extend New Zealand's lead to 31-0.

South Africa were determined to make their mark on the final and were rewarded for a long period of pressure inside the New Zealand 22 with a try for Yaasir Hartzenberg, to leave the final score 31-7 to New Zealand.

Australia break Welsh hearts

Defending champions Australia produced a remarkable second-half comeback to claim third place over Wales. Trailing 21-10 at the break, Andrew Barrett and Alfi Mafi scored the tries that saw Australia claw back to within one point with 12 minutes remaining. Jason Ryan added a conversion and a late penalty to seal a 25-21 victory.

France outclass England

France made it four wins out of five with a comprehensive 43-17 victory over England at Shaw's Bridge, securing fifth place in the process. France fly half Mathieu Belie scored 17 of his side's points, including a try after just three minutes.

Samoa hold on against Argentina

Samoa claimed seventh place after an heroic second-half defensive performance against Argentina at Shaw's Bridge. Atenai Aii's try two minutes into the second half gave them a 13-8 cushion and they held out until four minutes from time, when Facundo Corimayo pulled Argentina to within a point.

Ignacio Poet Belmonte had the chance to edge Argentina ahead, but he was unable to kick the conversion as Samoa held on 13-12.

Hosts finish in style

Ireland gave the home fans plenty to shout about at Ravenhill as they outclassed Scotland 34-0 to secure ninth place.

Fiji too strong for Japan

Henry Speight scored a hat trick of tries as Fiji defeated Japan 60-12 in the battle for 11th.

Chile win Fair Play Award

Chile claimed the John McCall Fair Play Award for their performances during the tournament. The award was presented to Chile captain Benjamin Del Solar by John McCall's parents, whose son tragically died during an IRB Under 19 World Championship match in 2004.

For final Division A standings, click here

 

21/04/2007, 15:30 Fiji FT 60-12 Japan Belfast Harlequins, Belfast
21/04/2007, 15:00 Scotland FT 0-34 Ireland Ravenhill, Belfast
21/04/2007, 13:30 Argentina FT 12-13  Samoa Shaw's Bridge, Belfast
21/04/2007, 15:30 England FT 17-43  France Shaw's Bridge, Belfast
21/04/2007, 17:30 Australia FT 25-21  Wales Ravenhill, Belfast
21/04/2007, 19:30 South Africa  FT 7-31 New Zealand Ravenhill, Belfast


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