England were crowned world champions after beating Canada 21-9 in the Women’s World Cup final on Sunday.

A star performance by outside centre Emily Scarrat, who scored 16 of England’s 21 points, helped propel her side to glory at Stade Jean Bouin. Both teams took the cautious approach in the first 10 minutes, but two penalties by Scarratt nudged the Red Roses in front. Canada looked unsettled and the English slowly started to dictate proceedings.

They finally turned the pressure into points, when Danielle Waterman scored a try for an 11-point lead.

The Canadians got their act together late in the first half, working their way into English territory before being awarded a kickable penalty. Player of the Tournament nominee Magali Harvey made no mistake, cutting the deficit to eight at the halfway mark.

Two more penalties by Harvey early in the second half whittled England's lead to just two points, but Scarratt had other ideas. She kicked her third penalty before skillfully slicing through the Canadian defence for a converted try, which sealed the match and ensured a second World Cup title for England.

Earlier in the day, Spain thrashed the Springbok Women 36-0 in a one-sided affair in Marcoussis, to clinch ninth place at the event. They scored five tries, four conversions and a penalty, while the South Africans, who delivered their worst performance at the World Cup, finished in 10th place, like they did four years ago.

Photo: Jordan Mansfield/Getty Images