Greening's efforts weren't enough for England

England made an impressive start, Paul Sampson chasing back to catch New Zealand speedster Joe Rokocoko when he looked clear.

Then Ben Gollings ran majestically deep into Kiwi territory, only for Sampson to knock on at the vital moment.

New Zealand were rattled by England's opening, but it was the men in black who struck midway through a fast and furious first half.

This time, Sampson could not make up enough ground on Rokocoko, who just managed to evade the Wasps player's despairing lunge and to score.

England hit back when Rob Thirlby tied things up through a 30-metre sprint, yet New Zealand carved them open right on half-time through Craig De Goldi, Amasio Valence converting for a 12-5 interval lead.

Chris Masoe and Brad Fleming darted over for two more touchdowns to virtually ensure the Cup for New Zealand.

Gollings raced over for a consolation England try, which he also converted, but once again the silverware belonged to New Zealand.

England finish their season in third place in the overall standings courtesy of their 26-0 semi-final win over closest rivals Fiji, having already disposed of Scotland in the quarters.

New Zealand had conceded just seven points in brushing aside challenges during the knockout stages from France and Australia.

Quarter-final opponents France were crushed 47-7, while arch-rivals Australia also finished a distant second best, losing 33-0.

Avenging

The gulf between world rugby's leading sevens exponents was obvious to see for a second day Millennium Stadium crowd of around 5,000.

At various stages of the 44-game tournament, there were encouraging contributions from countries such as Ireland, Russia, Portugal and Canada.

But the Commonwealth Games medal shake-up this summer looks as though it will be a five-horse race between New Zealand, England, South Africa, Fiji and Australia.

Wales at least ended a disappointing weekend's work by winning the Shield and avenging their pool defeat against Russia.

Matthew Robinson and Ben Breeze both scored two tries and there was also a touchdown for Emyr Lewis, while Arwel Thomas kicked three conversions as Wales triumphed 31-22.

But there was no joy for Ireland in the Bowl final, as Argentina atoned for their surprise failure to reach the main competition last-eight by winning 40-24.

In the plate final, South Africa overwhelmed France 40-0.