England surprised the rugby world on Saturday evening when they beat France in their semi-final clash. England started the game like a house on fire, scoring the only try of the game after just two minutes when Josh Lewsey gathered a lucky bounce to crash over in the corner. France recovered from this early setback and took the lead through 3 penalties by flyhalf, Lionel Beauxis. This secured France a 9-5 lead at half time. England defended well the entire game and with their dominant pack of forwards providing good ball, Jonny Wilkinson kicked them into good field position. Two penalties saw England sneak into the lead with 8 minutes left on the clock. Wilkinson then sealed the victory when he slotted his 5th drop goal of the 2007 RWC. Final score: England 14 France 9

England now have the chance to become the first team to win back to back RWC titles when they defend their title next week Saturday.

Tags: test-match, Test-Rugby, World Cup