Despite a strong start, winger Lydia Thompson’s first-half dismissal proved crucial after a reckless tackle on Portia Woodman in the 18th minute. A hat-trick from curler Amy Cockayne and efforts from winger Marley Packer and full-back Ellie Kildoon kept England in front for all but 15 of the 80 minutes. However. Winger Ayesha Leti-l’iga scored a try nine minutes from time to give New Zealand a 34-31 victory. It secured a sixth world title for the Black Ferns at a packed Eden Park. England captain Sarah Hunter said: “I’m gutted. I’m so proud of the team. We came out fighting. “We had our backs against the wall for 60 minutes of that game but we never gave up, we kept coming out. “One result does not define the team we are, the people we are and hopefully what we have created.” Black Ferns captain Ruahei Demant: “I can’t put it into words. All I can say is thank you – I’m so proud of our team. “It’s been really challenging. Most people don’t even know that last year we went on a northern tour and got a boost. The way the players have turned themselves around – there’s a lot they haven’t seen. “We have sacrificed so much to have a once in a lifetime chance to win a World Cup on home soil, and we did.” Earlier, France won the bronze medal after demolishing Canada 36-0, scoring five tries.
