Chokers no more! All Blacks win Rugby World Cup

PHOTO: Getty Images

IT WAS relief followed by celebration as the New Zealand All Blacks edged past France with an 8-7 victory to claim the Rugby World Cup at Eden Park yesterday.

New Zealanders across the nation willed their team to their first World Cup victory in 24 years, having beaten the same opponents by 20 points in 1987 at the same venue.

It also dispelled the unwanted tag of "chokers" for the All Blacks, who have gone to every World Cup as favourites but failing to produce the goods.

A roar greeted skipper Richie McCaw as he lifted the trophy.