A Bridge Too Far

Sadly, it was not to be. Despite a remarkable turnaround from a team that had been at an all-time low, England’s world cup dream was cruelly put to the sword at the Stade de France this evening by a triumphant South Africa.

Played with full of courage and determination throughout, England sadly lacked that certain flair to break through a solid South African defence, and were perhaps also unfortunate to have a Mark Cueto try not given.

Statistically speaking, South Africa fully deserved their ultimate victory. They scored more points and more tries than England throughout the tournament, and that difference eventually shone through tonight. However, the England team that South Africa had comprehensively defeated 36-0 only weeks earlier did not give in without an admirable fight, and I think that despite coming so close, England can leave France with heads held higher.

What was quite amazing about England’s world cup journey was the support that slowly grew behind the team as the tournament continued. England’s heroic underdog performances had a strangely uniting effect on the nation and continues to show why Rugby is a far more civilised and enjoyable sport than football. What’s more, High street retailers recorded massive increases in merchandise and replica shirt sales, while the supermarkets sold gallons of alcohol. Huge numbers of fans crossed the channel to support England at the knockout stages and especially the final, and English troops around the world in Afghanistan and Iraq gathered to urge on their men.

Despite disappointment tonight, England under Brian Ashton have really created a fantastic side to build on, and there’s always another chance on the horizon in four years time.