This archive report was first published on 2 November 2019.
On a disappointing day for England, captain Owen Farrell pointed to a slow start as the reason behind their 32-12 loss to South Africa in the Rugby World Cup final on November 2, 2019.
"We didn't start it well. Probably had a disappointing first half," said Farrell, who looked close to tears after the loss.
Despite showing good fight in the second half, England ultimately fell short, with South Africa's fly-half Handre Pollard doing the damage with six penalty kicks.
"But credit to South Africa. They were very good today," said Farrell, who kicked all 12 of England's points.
Coach Eddie Jones echoed Farrell's sentiments, stating that England struggled to make headway against the heavyweight South African team.
"We just struggled to get in the game. The effort of the players was outstanding but we just struggled to get on the front foot today," said Jones.
