England juniors conquer world with win over Wales

Jack Nowell scores the try that launched England’s dramatic second-half fightback (Getty)

England Under-20s became Junior World Champions on Sunday for the first time after fighting back from a 12-point half-time deficit to defeat Wales Under-20s 23-15 in Vannes, France. It was a double first for England who also became the first team from the northern hemisphere to win the tournament.

This was Wales' first Junior World Championship final, while England finally triumphed in their fourth attempt.

Two tries from the Bridgend wing Ashley Evans and five points from the boot of Sam Davies, the World Junior Player of the Year, inspired Wales to a 15-3 lead at half-time with England reduced to 14 men after second-row Dominic Barrow was sent to the sin-bin for a stray knee in the ruck. The Leeds player was found guilty of striking Welsh captain Ellis Jenkins.

England, who had a try disallowed in each half, powered back in the second period. First, Exeter full-back Jack Nowell touched down and two other Exeter players scored England's winning points. Sam Hill crossed for their second try and two conversions and two penalties from Henry Slade saw England crowned as champions at the Stade de la Rabine.