Rugby World Cup: England defeat All Blacks to go through to final
Written by News on 27/10/2019
England are through to the Rugby World Cup final after a stunning victory over reigning champions New Zealand in Japan.
The final score in the knockout semi-final clash – which Eddie Jones’ squad dominated throughout – was 19-7.
England will now face either Wales or South Africa, who play their semi-final on Sunday.
New Zealand, who had not lost a World Cup game since France beat them in 2007, were no match for the Red Rose juggernaut.
England gave a remarkable performance at the Yokohama International Stadium, comprehensively outplaying one of the most revered teams in sporting history.
The superb display makes them firm favourites to be crowned world champions for a second time following the Jonny Wilkinson-inspired success of 2003.
Speaking after the game, England’s head coach Eddie Jones said: “We stuck to our game really well. I thought the discipline of our players was outstanding.”
Looking ahead to the final, he added; “We don’t bet. We don’t look at the bookies.
“Our expectation is the most important thing. We try to get better everyday.”
England captain Owen Farrell said: “Like all big games it was physical right from the off but we knew that was going to happen.
“It’s brilliant to get there [the final].”
New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen said: “I’m proud of the team and they have done tremendous things for their country, but all credit to England.
“They played a tremendous game of footy. Well done to them.”
England faced the arrow head formation of the All Blacks’ fearsome Haka with their own V-shape – and the act of defiance was followed by a sensational start with an opening try by Manu Tuilagi in just the second minute.
New Zealand barely threatened and managed only a gift of a try by Ardie Savea after England’s lineout went wrong and Jamie George threw the ball straight into the arms of the flanker, who fell over the line.
Converted penalties gave England headroom and the team kept up the pressure as the All Blacks became desperate.
England’s final score may have been even bigger had they not had two tries disallowed, but the impressive result was more than enough to seal their fourth appearance in the World Cup final next Saturday.
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(c) Sky News 2019: Rugby World Cup: England defeat All Blacks to go through to final
