GOLD COAST, April 15 (NsNewsWire) — Kelly Brazier was New Zealand’s hero as she scored a golden point extra-time try to beat Australia 17-12 and claim the first Commonwealth Games women’s rugby sevens gold in a thrilling encounter on Sunday.

With the scores at Robina Stadium locked at 12-12 and the first period of extra-time about to end, Brazier, stepped and jinked her way through the Australian defence from the New Zealand 15m line before outpacing the covering defence.

“It’s so surreal, I can’t believe I just won the gold medal,” New Zealand captain Sarah Goss said. “I’m so proud of all the girls, it’s been an amazing run over the last eight weeks.

“To bring it home in an atmosphere like that was incredible, the support we’ve had from all the fans, really boosted us.”

Australia had beaten New Zealand 24-17 in the first women’s rugby sevens Olympic Games final at Rio 2016 and a passionate crowd was treated to another cracking final between the two star women’s rugby sevens teams.

It was New Zealand early as women’s world rugby player of the year Portia Woodman scored her eighth try of the tournament then Michaela Blyde crossed for a 12-0 lead at halftime.

Australia hit back in the second half and scored twice through Emilee Cherry and Ellia Green.

In the first period of extra-time both sides had chances before Brazier sprinted her way into Commonwealth Games history.

“It’s so special to us, our families and our country to be the first gold medallist in women’s rugby at the Commonwealth Games,” Theresa Fitzpatrick said.

“It’s been a big build-up and I know our families and country are proud of us.”

Earlier, England beat Canada 24-19 to claim bronze.