New Zealand retained their Southern Hemisphere under-21 rugby title last night, beating Australia 30-13 in the final in Sydney.
The Colts ran in four tries to one in a free-flowing match at the Sydney Showgrounds.
First-half tries to second five-eighths Sam Mapusua and centre Jason Shoemark gave New Zealand a 14-3 halftime lead after Australia opened the scoring with a penalty to first five-eighths Tim Donnelly.
Donnelly added another penalty afer the break before a converted try to Australian winger Tui Talaia narrowed the lead to four points.
New Zealand then stole away, with tries to captain Richard McCaw and substitute back Tane Tu'ipulotu sealing the victory.
New Zealand's win equalled Australia's record of winning the tournament three times.
New Zealand 30 (Sam Mapusua, Jason Shoemark, Richard McCaw, Tane Tu'ipulotu tries; Shannon Paku 2 pen, Riki Flutey 2 con)
Australia 13 (Tui Talaia try; Tim Donnelly 2 pen, con).
Halftime: 14-3.
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