Ashton disappointed but proud

England head coach Brian Ashton told his players to leave Paris with their ‘heads held high’ after South Africa ended their brave World Cup defence.

England had overturned the odds to reach the final with two gutsy victories, over Australia and then France.

But they could not manage it a third time as South Africa edged a ferocious battle 15-6 to become world champions for a second time.

Ashton said: ‘I am bitterly, bitterly disappointed we didn't win the game.

‘Despite what everyone else thought outside the squad we believed we had a good chance to win the game.

‘I don't think 15-6 reflected the difference between the two sides but ultimately you can't argue with the scoreboard.

‘Congratulations to South Africa, they have been the best side through the tournament.

‘The whole seven weeks has been a fantastic adventure for us in many ways.

‘I am incredibly proud of the players to have got to where they got to and put up such a fight in a World Cup final.’

Ashton gathered the players together in a huddle after the final whistle.

‘They were private moments. We closed ranks during this tournament but I told the players they can keep their heads held high,’ he said.

‘It was not quite enough on the night but they have nothing to be ashamed about.

‘There will be no recriminations from me and from the way the supporters responded around the stadium, not from them either.’

South Africa won thanks to four penalties from Percy Montgomery and a long-range effort from Francois Steyn.

England's only points came from the boot of Jonny Wilkinson and despite dominating the scrum they did not get the bounce of the ball when it came to refereeing decisions.

England were denied a try by video referee Stuart Dickinson when Mark Cueto finished off a brilliant attack in the corner but was adjudged to have brushed the touchline as he was tackled by Danie Roussow.

‘It is easy with hindsight to say 'yes, that was the turning point' but you just don't know,’ Ashton added.

‘We were hanging around the South Africa 22 for long enough after that. It was a big moment in the game but it is hard to justify it was the turning point.’

Despite reports a new contract had been agreed, Ashton insisted no decision has yet been made on his position.

But he is excited by what the future holds in store for English rugby.

After injuries had forced off Jason Robinson and Mike Catt, England finished the match with a back division of the promising talent featuring Dan Hipkiss, Toby Flood, Mathew Tait and Paul Sackey.

Ashton said: ‘The future is very positive for English rugby. There are some very good young players coming though and some more mature players haven't finished their international careers either.

‘I have no idea what my future is. I am out of contract on December 31. All I will do immediately is enjoy myself with the lads tonight once we have dusted ourselves down and left the changing room.

‘Spending time with the lads tonight is my immediate future."

England captain Phil Vickery was frustrated by some of the refereeing decisions.

‘The game swung on crucial decisions at crucial times, not just from the players but from officials as well. We probably didn't quite have enough on the night,’ said said Vickery. ‘South Africa performed better under the high-pressure situations.

‘I said to John Smit on the field afterwards, “It was thoroughly deserved, well done.'” It has been a roller-coaster few weeks for us. I have played with some real warriors at this World Cup and there were memories I will always have.

‘I am deeply proud of all the players. It has been a real honour to be captain of this side. I am disappointed not to get a victory today but life goes on.’

Vickery would not be drawn on his international future.

‘I am contracted to London Wasps for this season. I go home, see my daughter, chill out for a few days and then look forward to getting back on the paddock for Wasps,’ he said.

‘I love what I do. Rugby has been a good friend to me. I don't want to sit here and start thinking about what the future holds. There will be some serious thought in the next few months.’