“The whole team’s performance was strong,” said the head coach. “We came here with a plan to win the game and we fell a little bit short - not far, just a little bit. We’re desperately disappointed but the players should be immensely proud of what they’ve done.
“That starting 23, there were seven players aged 25 or under, the most of the semifinalists. South Africa had one. There’ll be lots of things to take forward from this. We put ourselves in a position to beat the world champions. They’re there for a reason.
“I’ll always be proud of these players and I’m proud to be involved with England. I have two young boys at home who will be gutted and I’m sure there will be millions of others. I care about the supporters, the players and English rugby.”
Farrell, the England captain, brushed off the full-time handbags as “nothing, just a misunderstanding” before reiterating Borthwick’s pride.
“I’m sitting here disappointed but unbelievably proud of what this group has done with five months together,” said Farrell. “It’s not all gone our way but to build up to today and ultimately come short against a great team like South Africa, I’m disappointed but proud of what the team has achieved.”
England’s attention turns to Argentina on Friday night in the bronze final before South Africa hope to become just the second team in history to retain the Webb Ellis Cup - but Jacques Nienaber admitted they must improve before returning to the Stade de France next Saturday.
“I must start with paying a lot of credit to England,” said the Springboks’ head coach. “I thought they were outstanding on the night. They had a very good tactical plan and they put us under a lot of pressure. We’ll go and have a look at that in case New Zealand use the same tactic because it took us some time to get to grips with it - but they refused to give up and I’m very proud of that.”
Princess of Wales’ message of support
The Princess of Wales told England rugby players to walk away with their “heads held high” after their defeat.
Kate, patron of the Rugby Football Union and Rugby Football League, told the players to be “so proud” of themselves in a personal post on social media.
In a post on Twitter, the future Queen wrote: “You can be so proud of yourselves @EnglandRugby.
“Though it may have been defeat today, you can walk away from this tournament with your heads held high. C.”
