Wilko proud of stubborn England

Jonny Wilkinson described England's heroic World Cup quarter-final win over Australia as "one of the best days of my life".

Wilkinson kicked four penalties in England's 12-10 win to become the all-time World Cup record points scorer.

"There's certainly a lot to be proud of - resolve, stubbornness, not giving in to anything," Wilkinson said in his column for the Times. "Saturday was a real joy to be part of - one of the best days of my life."

However, the Newcastle fly-half spared a thought for Stirling Mortlock, who had a chance to win it right at the death for Australia.

Wilkinson added: "For all that, there was one moment over which we had no control - Stirling Mortlock's penalty attempt in the 78th minute.

"I saw that kick again on a replay that night and I can tell you, it was a damned fine kick. With the balls flying the way they are he has real sympathy from me there, that is for certain.

"As a kicker here you are not completely accountable. Sometimes it is like you are almost hitting and hoping, and kickers just never do that."