Now for revenge

The Springboks inflicted the pool-stage defeat on Brian Ashton's team four weeks ago but England have since bounced back in dramatic style.

They capped a remarkable comeback when defeating France 14-9 in the Stade de France on Saturday night - now they must go back to the same stadium to face South Africa again.

And Dallaglio has no doubts they will retain the Webb Ellis Trophy won four years ago in Australia, saying "There are no mental scars from that match. It was disappointing to watch that happen but the response has been magnificent.

"As we have shown already, you can lose two matches against the opposition - as we did to France before this tournament - and then produce the big performance when it matters.

"Would this be the greatest come back in the sport? Well, if you lose 36-0 and then are written off in most sections of the media, turn things around to give yourself a shot at the Cup, then it's a pretty significant achievement.

"What South Africa did to us taught us all a very valuable lesson and we had to sharpen our act up.

"I couldn't say it was a favour to lose 36-0 but it highlighted the areas where we had to step up our performance and now both teams have been given the chance the win the Cup for a second time.

"It took us a bit of time to realise that we were at the World Cup in terms of performance level and very quickly we were staring down the barrel. But you have seen how we have responded and we have a real chance."

Dallaglio also expressed his disappointment that London Wasps team-mate Josh Lewsey has been ruled out of the final with a hamstring injury. He said: "It's a blow for Josh but one man's disappointment is another man's opportunity and you don't win a World Cup with the efforts of just one person, it's about the whole team. South Africa have shifted up a few gears since they played us and have looked the most composed side at the World Cup."

Veteran centre Mike Catt also left the field with a groin problem, but said it was a minor worry. "I would not want to miss next weekend for anything," he said.

John Wells, the England forwards coach, laid out the challenge facing the defending champions against the Springboks, saying: "In the last three games they have hammered us and we are aware that we have to show a massive improvement - but we can still win this.

"In the last three games they have scored a lot of points against us but we now have some momentum and belief. Yet I don't believe the previous matches are irrelevant, because the last time we played them we lost 36-0 putting out a good side.

"We have a lot to do and the loss of Lewsey is a blow and very unfortunate for him. But we back our squad as we have dealt with injuries all through the tournament. Our run of wins has given the guys confidence and they know they are now facing a massive challenge."

Springboks captain John Smit, who led his team in last night's 37-13 win over Argentina, also believes England will be dangerous opponents.

The hooker said: "England are proving a lot of people wrong in terms of winning this tournament.

"They have played World Cup-winning rugby in the last two matches and it has paid off for them.

"They've kicked in the right places, dropped goals at the right times and their forwards have done a good job which is a good formula to win games at a World Cup."