France edge Aussies to secure back-to-back world U20 titles

Rosario - France overcame conceding a try after just 49 seconds to beat Australia 24-23 and retain their World Rugby U20 rugby championship title on Saturday.

Les Bleus are just the third team to have successfully defended the title after New Zealand (2008 to 2011) and England (2013 and 2014).

Wallabies winger Mark Nawaqanitawase gave his team a flying start with the second fastest try in under-20 championship final history after just 49 seconds.

Lachlan Lonergan also crossed for Australia in the opening period while Theo Lachaud and Alex Burin hit back for France to edge their team ahead.

Louis Carbonel added eight points with the boot for an 18-13 lead at the interval.

In an end-to-end match, Harry Wilson gave Australia the lead again with a 49th-minute converted try.

However, Carbonel kicked two more penalties to secure victory.