Rugby-loving South Africans burst into jubilation on Saturday night after their team the Springboks defeated defending champions England 15-6 in the Rugby World Cup final in Paris, France.

 

Hundreds of overjoyed fans reveled in Rosebank, Johannesburg, while on a big TV screen the team were seen lifting the Webb Ellis trophy at the Stade de France in Paris. Wearing the Springboks jersey and waving the national flag, they celebrated South Africa's second World Cup title after winning it in 1995 at home.

 

A chorus of car hooters broke the night silence on the roads, while commentators dissected the match, which was won with three penalties by Percy Montgomery and one by Francois Steyn to England's two by Jonny Wilkinson.

 

Congratulations on the win streamed in just minutes after the final whistle blew -- among the first that of Britain's High Commissioner to South Africa Paul Boateng, the SAPA news agency reported.

 

"Well done South Africa, worthy champions," said Boateng as the South Africans, led by captain John Smit, received their gold medals.

 

The team had shown professionalism, patriotism and hunger to win since the beginning of the tournament, said the South African Football Players Union (SAFPU).

 

The Springboks had set a benchmark for all national teams, it said.

 

(Xinhua News Agency October 21, 2007)