England have become the first country from the northern hemisphere to win the Rugby World Cup final by defeating defending champions and hosts Australia 20-17 after extra time.

A capacity crowd of nearly 83,000 at Sydney's Olympic stadium saw England dominate for most of the nerve-jangling match in rainy conditions with fly half Jonny Wilkinson again proving the match winner for his side with 15 points.

Tournament top-scorer Jonny Wilkinson drop-kicked a goal in the final minute of extra time to help England lift the William Webb Ellis trophy for his country -- the first major sporting fixture England has won since the 1966 football World Cup.

England captain Martin Johnson praised his team's efforts. "It was a huge effort by the entire squad of players, coaches and backroom staff, everybody. Thanks to the fans, they were incredible."