Ashton praises England stamina

7 Sept - 20 Oct, 2007

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England coach Brian Ashton hailed his side's resilience after their 36-20 win over Tonga sealed a place in the last eight against Australia in Marseille.

The world champions were convincingly beaten by South Africa, but have since bounced back to win their final games.

"Two weeks ago, according to a lot of people, we were down and out in the tournament. But we are through to the knockout stages," said Ashton.

"we know we will have to go up a gear at least next Saturday."

But Ashton added: "When you get to the knock-out stages, it is a two-horse race. On any one day, any one team could probably beat any other side."

Fly-half Jonny Wilkinson admitted England still have areas to improve on if they are to stand a chance of beating their opponents from the 2003 World Cup final.

"We did the basics right but it was a tough night. It could have gone either way, but we became strong at the end.

"To win by a few points is satisfying - but we've a fair way to go."

Wilkinson notched his 222nd World Cup point at the Parc de Prince and now trails Scotland's Gavin Hastings by five points as the competition's all-time leading scorer with 227.

But the 28-year-old typically refused to dwell on the positive aspects of his own performance.

"I still need to improve, most of the stuff in my head is what I need to improve upon," he added.

But winger Sackey acknowledged England's most promising moves were down to Wilkinson's influence in midfield.

"The decision-making between 10, nine and 12 was spot on, we played our territory game and kept competing," said the Wasps star.

"We soaked up their pressure and got a good result."

Despite a few moments of inspiration, Tonga coach Quddus Fielea admitted his team did not produce a performance worthy of a place in the last eight.

"I think we were our own worst enemy, our execution wasn't what it should have been," he said.

But at the end of the day the best team won. It was a marvellous last game and best of luck to England for next weekend."

Source: BBC Sport