There were incredible scenes in France last night as the Junior World Championship served up two upset results, with both the defending champion Baby Boks and the always powerful Baby Blacks being defeated by Wales and England respectively.
Wales and England Under-20s will face off for the 2013 Junior World Championship title on Sunday, the first time two Northern Hemisphere sides have ever contested the final of such an event.
Wales achieved a last gasp 18-17 win over South Africa with a late converted try that came from a neat kick ahead, and conversion, but star youngester Sam Davies (the son of Nigel Davies).
“Sam’s been very, very consistent to a particular high level during the course of this tournament with his kicking game and his attacking game. He deserved huge credit for that kick,” said defence coach Richard Hodges.
A controversial try that appeared to be dropped over the line went the way of Wales, and in the end it was their determination that sealed the win. They’re now relishing a meeting with arch rivals England, who beat New Zealand 33-21, in the final.
Four time champions New Zealand were defeated by England for the first time at age grade level.
“It’s unbelievable – having not done well last year, we spoke to the new boys coming up and said we’ve really got to go for it this year. To beat New Zealand on its own is amazing,” said England hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie.
“Never come up against them, I thought they may have sneaked it at the end. But, to get into a final of a JWC in my last year is amazing.
South Africa and New Zealand will play for third place ahead of the Final on Sunday.
Highlights of South Africa vs Wales and New Zealand vs England are posted below. Final predictions?
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