England's Heroic Rugby Squad lost to South Africa 15-16 in their semi-final clash at Stade de France, and will now play Argentina in the Bronze Medal Match next weekend. Fifteen points from the boot of captain Owen Farrell was not enough, as the World Champions snatched victory in the final minutes courtesy of a Handre Pollard penalty. Farrell bagged his first penalty inside the opening two minutes; Pieter-Steph du Toit went off his feet at the breakdown, and allowed the fly-half to fire over the 30-metre effort. The Saracens man doubled England's lead on the 10-minute mark, as the Springboks leaked another ruck penalty close to their posts. South Africa had two opportunities to convert penalties of their own but turned down the shot at posts, opting to go to the corner, and on both occasions were out-muscled in the subsequent mauls - England showing huge passion in defence to clear their lines. The third penalty awarded to South Africa inside England's half was nudged over by Libbok, but Farrell was on hand moments later to knock over his third attempt. Libbok was taken off after half hour on the clock, and Pollard was quick to introduce himself to the Test with a straightforward penalty. Farrell claimed his twelfth point as the last act of the first half, and the stats at the break showed a dominant English performance as Borthwick's men boasted more possession, metres made and carries - the Match Centre highlighted Courtney Lawes as a standout performer. Photo: England RFC
