2. Australia 17-20 England (After Extra Time): 2003 Rugby World Cup Final
Another Rugby World Cup Final that was decided with the single strike of a drop goal, England fans need no reminding of Jonny Wilkinson’s heroics which saw him bring the Web Ellis trophy home to Twickenham for the first time.
With scores poised on a knife-edge at 17-17, England and Australia were deep into extra time in the era-defining World Cup final. Just 28 seconds remained, when England’s fly half used his ‘weaker’ right foot to send the ball sailing through the Sydney air, to a roar of celebration from the travelling supporters.
The commentary will long be remembered as the perfect pairing to the famous image; “Again, Wilkinson in the place, Jonny Wilkinson… He’s done it! It’s over! At last on the fourth attempt, Jonny Wilkinson is on target.”
The Newcastle Falcons legend has had many career highlights, yet this once in a generation drop goal will forever be the crown jewel in his trophy cabinet.
This iconic rugby moment would never have happened without the previous 80 minutes of action. The match saw a new record set for a Rugby World Cup fixture, as 82,957 fans packed themselves into Stadium Australia.
The Wallabies took an early lead, after Lote Tuqiri scored just six minutes into the game, with Elton Flatley’s missing the conversion. Wilkinson’s three penalties regained the lead, before a try moments from half time, saw flying winger Jason Robinson go over in the corner.
Flatley’s three unanswered second half penalties ended the match at 14-14, with Wilkinson and Flatley trading extra time penalties for a 17-17 score-line. All of this storied drama then led to the final minute of the match, which as they say, is history.