I seem to remember a few months ago all the pundits plotting England's path to the final, the only question being whether or not they could beat the All Blacks - such innocent optimism! Ho hum.
Great world cup though. Biggest bonus for me was the progress that the tier two nations have made - you almost expect it of the South Sea islanders but to see teams such as Japan, Georgia, USA and Romania playing expansive rugby without fear was great for the future of world rugby. And a wake up call to the old guard in the northern hemisphere. Oh, and look what Argentina have done - not the finished article but well on the way and great to watch.
So finally, well done New Zealand - deserved winners!
