The Final

The final game of what has been a great tournament for rugby, and an entertaining spectacle, will unexpectedly see current champions England take on South Africa, Stade de France, Paris 8pm kick-off – streaming video coverage online.. or an alternative view. They may have already met, and the Springboks demolished England in that game, but don’t expect a similar 36-0 scoreline. South Africa – who have won 4 of the last 5 games between the sides – haven’t been properly tested, but have creaked at times even when winning comfortably, while England have already produced two outstanding performances to progress to this final. From the official preview report – “Springboks captain John Smit best summed up the feeling in both camps when he said: “We haven’t come all this way for nothing.”” 1st Half 7mins in. And the first error. 12mins in. And Wilkinson equalises with a difficult penalty. 16mins in. A duel of the kickers so far as SA go ahead again. Half-time England 3 – 9 South Africa. Desperate defence from England holds out the Springboks. But they do come away with another penalty. 2nd Half 42mins in. Great break by England brings claims for a try. Video ref rules it out though. Penalty instead. 50mins in. Another penalty, for the Springboks. 61mins in. After sustained English pressure, Springboks get a penalty. England 6 – 15 South Africa Full-time It wasn’t a great game, or even a beautifully ugly game. In the end England lacked the ability to unlock the Springboks defence, with the possible exception of that disallowed try, but South Africa were content to soak up the pressure throughout the second half and, with their dominance in the line-out, they didn’t take any risks at opening the game up. Final Score: England 6 – 15 South Africa.

Pete Baker