England went down fighting as they rounded off their autumn internationals with a 19-6 defeat to New Zealand at Twickenham.

Jonny Wilkinson kicked two penalties but for all their passion and determination, England lacked the cutting edge needed to really trouble the All Blacks.

Jimmy Cowan crossed for New Zealand in the 57th minute, with the boot of Dan Carter doing the rest, though the fly-half endured a mixed afternoon.

England's attacking failings remain a concern, with only one try in three Tests and no points again after the interval - but this was the performance Martin Johnson had demanded, packed with fight, industry and endeavour.

England's best-laid plans had to be redrawn after barely two minutes when Joe Worsley, recalled for his tenacious defensive work, limped out of the action.

But it did nothing to dilute England's physical approach as Johnson's men started with an edge and a dynamism that was so woefully lacking against Argentina.

Past experiences have proven the only way to beat New Zealand is to match them for muscle and right from the kick-off England were in the face of the All Blacks.

Lewis Moody chased tirelessly to put Carter under pressure and this week he was not a lone operator, with James Haskell, Matt Banahan and Simon Shaw a willing supporting cast.

Carter was under constant pressure from Moody and even when he tested Mark Cueto, the new England full-back responded in confident fashion under the high ball.

For the best part of an hour, England stood toe to toe with the visitors. But in the final analysis, they did not have the attacking composure to push their opponents right to the limit and the All Blacks sealed victory in the second half, with Cowan's try proving the difference.