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.
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.
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.
Following the match, there were scenes of jubilation from the Kiwis, but also immense pride from the English.
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