IRB Rugby World Cup

England played against the host France in the first semi-final. This match was a nail biting one. The French team was leading the score line till the 72^nd minute however the margin was too narrow. England the reigning champions played good rugby and overcame the French score. This was a turning point when Wilkinson kicked the ball to the goal line and scored a crucial point. Then the French were trailing when there was a very little time to beat the English. During the late 70’s French pushed them really hard to get a try but the English Defense was too tough. Every promising run made by the French were tackled by the English. The French needed a try to level the score so it was a nail biting one. The match was a good one but the bottom line is that someone has to lose and it was French this time. For me Wilkinson is the man of the match and half of the victory should be credited to him, the remaining half to other English players. All in all England now are the favorites to win the IRB Rugby World Cup 2007. The other finalist would be declared when Argentina and South Africa meet head to head in the second semifinal.