The last two finals have been close affairs , with New Zealand beating France 8 - 7 in 2011 .
South Africa breaking England 's hearts 15 - 6 in 2007 in a match decided solely by penalties .
The last two finals have been close affairs , with New Zealand beating France 8 - 7 in 2011 and South Africa breaking England 's hearts 15 - 6 in 2007 in a match decided solely by penalties .