Vian van deer Watt of South Africa scores in the corner despite the efforts of Bryn Hall.
Photo / File
New Zealand have lost their four-year grip on the Junior World Championship trophy after they were beaten 22-16 by host nation South Africa in the final at Cape Town early today (NZT).
Playing in front of a crowd of more than 35,000 at Newlands Stadium, New Zealand went to the
break with a slim 10-9 lead with Auckland wing Milford Keresoma's converted try giving the visitors the edge.
But South Africa scored first in the second half through halfback Vian van der Watt to seize momentum and centre Jan Serfontein's try ensured the hosts held on to bring to an end New Zealand's impressive run of victories.
Captain Bryn Hall said his side were hugely disappointed not to come away with the win but took consolation from their efforts in the electric game.
"I am really proud of the way our boys gave it everything - we didn't give up,'' he said.
