Australia's Jillaroos have broken New Zealand's 13 year reign winning the 2013 Rugby League World Cup at Headingly Stadium, UK, overnight.
The Jillaroos went ahead early in the second half and then withstood a punishing period of play from New Zealand as they tried to get back into the game.
However, the Aussies stayed strong and finished all over their opponents running out winners 22 - 12.
This is Australia's first women's World Cup win and the first defeat ever for New Zealand.
“This was a true team effort by all 23 players,” Jillaroos coach Paul Dyer said.
“We never gave up against a bigger and stronger team and in the end, wore them down with brilliant defence.
"We dedicate this win to Graham Murray our former coach who was struck down with illness just prior to the World Cup campaign.”
Australia dominated Rugby League’s Festival of the World Cups in the UK winning four individual world cups with the Armed Forces, the Jillaroos, Student and Police teams all bringing home the gold.
Australia’s Police defeated the current World Champions, Fiji, 18 - 16 in a physical contest where the result was in doubt until the final siren.
Australia then lifted the World Cup trophy again with an excellent performance by the Armed Forces against New Zealand with a 32-22 win, impressing Kangaroos coach Tim Sheens watching on the sideline.
Following was Australia's first ever women's World Cup win and the first defeat ever for New Zealand 22-12.
To cap off the tour Australia Students have beaten England 26-16 in the Student World Cup Final.
The Australia Rugby League Commission has joined Kangaroos captain Cameron Smith in paying tribute to the four Australian teams who have dominated the 2013 Rugby League Festival of the World Cups in the United Kingdom.
“What a great day for Australian Rugby League,” said ARL Commission Chief Executive, Mr Dave Smith.
“I had the pleasure of spending a short amount of time with the teams in the UK last week and the amount of work they have had to put in to achieve their success is incredible.
“The results are outstanding and a credit to the players, the coaching staff and their families as well.
“To the Jillaroos, who have won the World Cup for the first time, I think the whole nation is proud of your achievement and we look forward to welcoming you back.”
Cameron Smith added: “On behalf of all Australians I would like to congratulate our four representative sides on their success last night in the UK, well done to you all.
“Hopefully the Kangaroos can emulate what these teams have achieved later in the year.”
