England staring into abyss after shock defeat by Wales

Defeated England coach Stuart Lancaster tried to rally his side ahead of next weekend’s World Cup clash against Australia after the shattering “pool of death” loss to Wales at Twickenham.

England, roared on by the bulk of a crowd of over 81,000, twice led by 10 points yet ended up losing 28-25 with Wales fly half Dan Biggar kicking 23 points.

France lost two pool matches before reaching the 2011 World Cup final while, four years earlier, England were thrashed 36-0 by South Africa in the group stage only to reach the final, where they were again beaten by the Springboks.

But, realistically, England now have to beat two-time world champions Australia if they are to have any hope of avoiding an early exit.

“There is absolutely no doubt this is knockout rugby but teams in the past have lost pool games and gone on to the final,” said Lancaster.

“I said to the boys everything now has to go into beating Australia,” added the coach, who will now be under huge pressure himself – especially as Lancaster was handed a contract extension prior to the World Cup.

Owen Farrell, England’s fly half, kicked 20 points with Jonny May’s try giving the hosts the edge until Wales scrum half Gareth Davies went over nine minutes from time for a converted effort that tied the score at 25-25.

England had a chance to level the match late on but skipper Chris Robshaw opted for an attacking line-out in the hope of a match-winning try only for Wales to defend the catch and drive.