The New Zealand under-20 men's rugby team are world champions for the first time since 2011 after defeating England 21-16 in the final in Cremona, Italy.
The New Zealand under 20 rugby team celebrate with the World Championship trophy, 2015. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
After pool victories over Scotland, Argentina and Ireland and a semi-final defeat of France, New Zealand ended a four-year wait for the title when Atu Moli became the fifth New Zealand captain to lift the trophy.
The defending champions England opened the scoring in the third minute at Stadio Giovanni Zini when 2nd five eighth Max Clark was awarded a try.
Twenty minutes later Vincent Tavae-Aso responded for New Zealand who took an 11-10 lead into half-time.
Vincent Tavae-Aso on his way to the try line. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The Blues impressive flanker Akira Ioane ran in the second and final try for the Baby Blacks early in the first half before being sent to the sin bin three minutes later.
Down to 14 men, the New Zealanders lifted their intensity and denied England a chance to capitalise on their advantage.
"When Aki went off the boys new they had to come together and dig deep," said Moli, who couldn't find the words to describe his emotions after the game.
The Hurricanes first -five eighth Otere Black kicked three penalties and a conversion for New Zealand as did his opposite Rory Jennings.
Otere Black kicks for goal Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Moli followed in the footsteps of Chris Smith, Aaron Cruden, Tyler Bleyendaal and Luke Whitelock who lead the Baby Blacks to victory from 2008 to 2011 respectively.
The New Zealand Coach Scott Robertson labelled the win an arm-wrestle
"Defensively I thought we were outstanding, you could see how courageous nearly every tackle was. We asked them to die for each other."
Robertson says the theme for his team this year was the Italian campaign of the second division during World War Two, which involved the New Zealand Maori battalion.
"They fought hard and had their final in Trieste. We used that tonight," said Robertson.
