South Africa and England have sealed their spots at Friday’s IRB Junior World Championship 2014 final in Eden Park.
A late try saw the Junior Boks defeat New Zealand in a classic at QBE North Harbour Stadium in front of passionate support on Sunday. New Zealand had the upper hand for most of the tight encounter, but hard work by the strong South African pack saw hooker Corniel Els dot down with two minutes remaining to ensure their progress.
Their opposition in the final will be Nick Walshe’s England side, who defeated Ireland earlier in the day, 42-15.
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Australia will play France in the fifth-place play off, after Australia beat Samoa 53-16, and France pipped Wales in Pukekohe, 19-18.
IRB Junior World Championship 2014 Ambassador Jonah Lomu said: “The South Africa versus New Zealand game is why young men play Rugby. What an absolute thriller.”
“The passion, energy and skills on display were awesome. My congratulations to both South Africa and England for getting to the final, and I have no doubt it will be another close affair in Eden Park next Friday.”
“Eden Park has hosted some classic matches in the past and fans should get down to watch the future stars of World Rugby on June 20.”
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The #JWC2014 finals in Eden Park and positional play-offs in QBE North Harbour will be streamed live on IRB.com, however some regions will be geo-blocked due to rights agreements. Viewers should check with the broadcaster in their region for more details.