Owen Farrell's 'pride' as he predicts 'bright future' for English rugby despite setback

The Wiganer kicked all 15 of England's 15 points, but it wasn't quite enough as South Africa nosed in front with three minutes remaining thanks to the boot of Handre Pollard.

Defeat signalled the end of the road for several of the England squad, but Farrell's overriding feeling was only pride in the aftermath.

"'My over-riding feeling now is how proud I am of this group," he said. "How proud I am of what we've done over the past five months.

"'The fight we've shown and the effort we put in. The sheer will at times was outstanding.

"And I hope we made everyone proud back home as well.

"This is definitely the last World Cup for some people, but one thing I do know is this team has got a bright future.

"There is a lot to come from this group."

Farrell's optimism was supported by coach Steve Borthwick, who came under fire in some quarters for his unwavering backing for his captain.

"In that 23, we have seven players aged 25 or younger," said Borthwick.

"That is the most of any of the semi-finalists so we have a great blend of experience and young players.

"We are disappointed but immensely proud of these guys and we'll build going forward.

"We have a very smart group of players that are learning very quickly because we have had to do it very quickly.

"The opposition have had four years and we have had four months.

"I asked the players to approach the training differently and they have embraced that.

"We thought we were going to win and we came here believing we would win.

"The players deserve enormous credit for that.

"I think the tens of thousands of England fans watching here and the millions watching at home will be very proud of their team."

South Africa’s opponents in the final will be New Zealand, who eliminated Ireland – coach by Owen’s dad Andy – in the quarter-finals.