England, also winners in 2013 and 2014 and runners-up last year, were always favourites against first-time finalists Ireland, with home turf a further advantage.

They duly powered out of the blocks with three converted tries in the first half to move 21-0 up by the interval.

Joe Marchant, Callum Chick and Huw Taylor all crossed in a scincillating display of attacking rugby which proved too much for their opponents.

Ireland, who shocked defending champions New Zealand earlier in the tournament, fought-back from converted tries of their own from Adam McBurney and Shane Daly.

But it proved a case of too little too late as Mallinder crossed twice himself, also kicking two conversions and a penalty.

A second try from Marchant added further gloss, deeming a late Irish score by Max Deegan nothing more than a late consolation.

It completed a memorable day for English Rugby following the success of the senior side in sealing a 3-0 series whitewash over Australia.

Argentina claimed an historic bronze medal courtesy of a 49-19 third place playoff victory over South Africa.

Captain Juan Cruz Mallia led the way with a hat-trick of tries, the final one clinching the victory in the final moments.

It bettered their previous best finish of fourth place in 2012.

New Zealand had to settle for fifth-place after a 55-24 win over Australia in today's playoff.

Next year's World Under-20 Championships are due to take place in Georgia.