Ashton reflects on England's win

Last Modified: 14 Oct 2007
By: Harry Fawcett

England's players and fans have been spending the day recovering from the dramatic Rugby World Cup semi-final victory over France in Paris last night.

The coach, Brian Ashton, admitted today that he would have found it hard to believe, if told five weeks ago, that his side would reach the final.

The team is set for a week of light training and rest. For the fans though, the scramble for train seats and match tickets has already begun.

Ashton began this tournament under pressure and under scrutiny - his misfiring side tipped for an early exit.

This morning, the England coach was reflecting on a hard-won night of triumph in Paris, and contemplating England's place in the World Cup Final.

It was certainly special. A show of sheer will as much as Rugby skill. So how can a side which lost 36-0 to South Africa a month ago have been so transformed?

Once again England had Jonny Wilkinson to thank for converting the awesome effort of their forwards into points.

But his worries about the balls used in this tournament continue - not for the first time, last night he was given a non-match ball as he was lining up a vital kick.

The television audience for last night's game peaked at nearly 12 and a half million - more surely will watch next weekend. And now the hunt is on for tickets for the final - one pair for sale on the internet today for more than £4,000.

More than 40,000 England fans were in Paris last night - many vowing to be back on Saturday. Train and ferry companies are preparing for a huge surge in bookings. The heartbroken hosts will have to extend their hospitality for another week.