South Africa Win The World Cup Rugby Final

South Africa ended England's reign as world champions in Paris as they claimed their second World Cup victory.

Three Percy Montgomery penalties to one from Jonny Wilkinson saw South Africa, who had hammered England in the group stages, lead 9-3 at the break.

A penalty apiece made it 12-6 before Francois Steyn edged the Boks further ahead with a long-range penalty.

England went desperately close to a try through Mark Cueto but South Africa held out to match their 1995 triumph.

It had been a remarkable run to the final for England, who went into the tournament woefully short of form.

They were humiliated in the group game against the Boks less than six weeks ago and although they finally found some form to reach the final, it was a bridge too far against a superior South Africa side.

The Springboks ruled the line-out through Victor Matfield, Bakkies Botha and Juan Smith, stealing seven of England's throws, and their defence was impeccable throughout the 80 minutes.

After Wilkinson kicked off England enjoyed the early territorial advantage but they could not make it count as they struggled to win their own throw at the line-out.

England's rugby heroes are hoping to put their dismal 36-0 defeat by South Africa behind them and make World Cup history by retaining the trophy.

The holders have a chance to get their revenge against the Springboks tonight - and become the first nation to win back-to-back titles.

Brian Ashton's "grumpy old men" are bidding to become the first team to retain the Webb Ellis Cup for a second year in succession.

England fans have been flocking across the Channel to the French capital to cheer on their team after their unlikely route to the finals.