England close gap but Kiwis take title
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.England claimed the London Sevens title while New Zealand were crowned the overall IRB World Sevens champions at Twickenham.
The hosts saw off Fiji 31-24 in the final on Saturday evening with tries from Tony Roque, Henry Paul, Ben Gollings, Simon Amor and Ugo Monye.
Nasoni Roko, the tournament's top try scorer, had opened the scoring for Fiji and Filimoni Bolavucu touched down twice but England, who had earlier overcome South Africa 26-5 in the semi-finals, had too much power. It was England's third tournament win of the series after victories in Hong Kong and Brisbane.
New Zealand's quest came to an end with a 26-7 semi-final defeat to Fiji but their efforts had already been enough to secure top spot in the overall standings.
Argentina beat Canada 36-21 to win the Shield final, Samoa won the Bowl final with a 44-5 win over France while Australia overcame Wales 40-14 in the Plate final.
The New Zealand coach, Gordon Tietjens, was pleased to wrap up the title but admitted that England, who secured the overall runners-up spot, were improving. "England are definitely closing the gap," he said. "It has been neck and neck right the way through and I think they finished only four points behind us.
"It's been a great series and all credit to my team. It's been a very special year for us. We won in Wellington, our home tournament, so I know what England will be feeling right now because it is special to win in front of your own people."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments