Jones: Cup plan good in spite of loss to the Irish

Eddie Jones insists his four-year plan leading into the 2019 Rugby World Cup remains intact despite the comprehensive defeat to Ireland.

The Six Nations champions headed to Dublin in search of a record-breaking 19th test victory only to barely fire a shot as they fell 13-9 to an Ireland side that could have won by much more.

England are attempting to arrange an additional fixture with the All Blacks at Twickenham in November, but New Zealand's media reacted with scorn to their failure to claim a place in history.

Among the words used to describe the display at the Aviva Stadium were "thuggish", "brain dead", "arrogant", "wrecking balls in chains" and "back to square one".

But Jones is adamant England are on course to peak at Japan 2019.

"This result doesn't change the plan at all. Did you think we would never get defeated?" Jones said.

"I know what we've got to do to be at our best for the World Cup. One game doesn't affect our perception of people, or the team.

"It's great for us. It's not great to lose, but it's a great learning experience. There's no scar there at all.

"You guys know the history of rugby. You know what the All Blacks had to go through to win the World Cup in 2011.

"They lost the semifinal against Australia in 2003 and they lost the quarter-final in 2007. They got to the final in 2011 and they had to have a very kind referee to get them home.

"That's how hard it is for them to win. So to lose the grand slam game when we've already got the trophy is hardly a scar, it's a learning experience."

The Rugby Football Union is hoping New Zealand will agree to play at Twickenham on November 4, meaning England must face the world champions in the opening match of the autumn series.

It will offer little time for the build-up, but Jones would still welcome the prospect of a mouth-watering showdown between the sport's two best rugby teams.

"We are very keen to play that game and if it comes across we will be well prepared. We don't have any excuses," Jones said.

- AAP