Rugby: New Zealand u20s finish fourth at World Championship

Jay Renton of New Zealand scores a try. Photo / Getty

The New Zealand under-20 side have finished fourth at the World Championships for just the second time after losing the bronze final to South Africa 40-30.

The Baby Blacks scored three first-half tries to lead 25-14 at halftime before South Africa took control of the game in the second half.

South Africa scored 26 unanswered points with four second-half tries.

Second-five Harry Plummer top-scored for New Zealand with a try, two conversions and two penalties but it wasn't enough.

It is not New Zealand's worst mistake at the Under-20's, finishing fifth in 2016 after failing to qualify for the semi-finals.

France denied the defending champions New Zealand their chance to retain their Under-20's title after losing 16-7 in the semi-final.

They moved on to face England in the final, winning the match 33-25 on Sunday (Monday NZT) in Beziers.

France only scored two tries to England's three, but kicker Louis Carbonel slotted seven penalties and one conversion to get his side over the line.

It's the first time France's Under-20's has won the final.