Samoa clinched their first ever IRB Sevens World Series title Sunday as they reached the final while the only side capable of preventing them winning the crown New Zealand went out in the semis.

The Samoans did it the hard way as they had to wait till the 13th minute of sudden-death extra-time to see England off - skipper Lolo Lui converting a drop goal penalty for a 15-12 victory.

New Zealand failed to set up what would have been a winner takes-all final as bitter rivals Australia - winners of the previous leg of the series in London last weekend - beat them 24-19.

The Samoans went on to win the final 41-14 against the Australians who finished the season with third place overall behind New Zealand.

Samoan coach Stephen Betham conceded that his hair had turned even greyer with the unbelievable climax but was understandably proud of the Pacific Islanders achievement.

"Couldn't get any better could it. I think my heart almost stopped ten times and I think I have grown another 20 grey hairs but that is Sevens for you," purred Betham.

"I think they (the Samoans) will be partying back home now and will be partying until we get home, I am pretty lost for words but am trying to gear myself up for the final game and I think I will enjoy it more after that."

New Zealand coach Gordon Tietjens was magnanimous in defeat, and admitted that his side had not deserved to even make the final.

"I think it is great for Samoa," he said.

"They have worked really hard and in some ways it would have been sad to see them get so far ahead and lose it at the death but they have put a lot of hard work in and it is thoroughly deserved."

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