Wed 19 Jun 2013 | 12:50
Wales and England to meet in Junior World Championship final

7
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There were incredible scenes in France last night as the Junior World Championship served up two upset results, with both the defending champion Baby Boks and the always powerful Baby Blacks being defeated by Wales and England respectively.

Wales and England Under-20s will face off for the 2013 Junior World Championship title on Sunday, the first time two Northern Hemisphere sides have ever contested the final of such an event.

Wales achieved a last gasp 18-17 win over South Africa with a late converted try that came from a neat kick ahead, and conversion, but star youngester Sam Davies (the son of Nigel Davies).

"Sam's been very, very consistent to a particular high level during the course of this tournament with his kicking game and his attacking game. He deserved huge credit for that kick," said defence coach Richard Hodges.

A controversial try that appeared to be dropped over the line went the way of Wales, and in the end it was their determination that sealed the win. They're now relishing a meeting with arch rivals England, who beat New Zealand 33-21, in the final.

Four time champions New Zealand were defeated by England for the first time at age grade level.

"It's unbelievable – having not done well last year, we spoke to the new boys coming up and said we've really got to go for it this year. To beat New Zealand on its own is amazing," said England hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie.

"Never come up against them, I thought they may have sneaked it at the end. But, to get into a final of a JWC in my last year is amazing.

South Africa and New Zealand will play for third place ahead of the Final on Sunday.

Highlights of South Africa vs Wales and New Zealand vs England are posted below. Final predictions?

7 Comments

  • celt11
    3:03 AM 23/06/2013

    Was expecting a full southern hemisphere final, very glad the english and welsh youngsters will break some dominance, from a fellow home-nationer.

  • drg
    12:02 AM 21/06/2013

    yeh, but the number 5 is an "islander" looking character, and they always seem to develop quicker...

  • barebear
    10:59 PM 20/06/2013

    The Welsh fullback looks like he's going to go on to be a fantastic player!

    As for that first Welsh try (5:43) - is that a knock on? All credit to Wales though I'm really looking forward to the final now!

  • misterdavid
    9:43 PM 20/06/2013

    What is that lovely pattering sound after each score?
    Could it be APPLAUSE?!

    Who'd have thought that rugby could be played without pointless celebratory music being played at every available moment?

  • benjaj
    6:04 PM 19/06/2013

    Have you seen the All Blacks number 5 ? It's even worse...

  • benjaj
    6:02 PM 19/06/2013

    Jordan Williams (the Welsh fullback) and Rhodri Williams (the scrumhalf) are very talented. Jordan was also amazing against Argentina, and he made a lot of beautiful linebreaks during this tournament.

  • drg
    4:09 PM 19/06/2013

    Can't believe that Welsh hooker didn't back himself 5 metres out against a winger...

    That Bok second row that scored - My God, that beard... and he is under-20?? I'm not trying to ring up a conspiracy, but could any of these guys be using "chemicals" or hormones or something? I mean, unless he has just never shaved a day in his life...