The television commentator described it as the night two major rugby forces collide. In reality, it was the night a major force collided with a major farce - because in world rugby terms, England’s performance against South Africa was a joke.

Devoid of attacking ideas, apart from a couple of trademark runs by the inspirational Jason Robinson, they were taken to the cleaners by the inspirational Springboks both in technical abilitity and more importantly, flair.

The Boks were streets ahead in every department, and the lethal attacking and finishing of man-of-the-match Fourie du Preez, JP Pieterson, Bryan Habana and Jacques Fourie suggested they could go all the way and win this World Cup. Indeed, after their 36-0 drubbing of Brian Ashton’s men, I cannot see any team but New Zealand beating them. And even the All Blacks will face an almighty test to stop them winning the tournament.

'England looked pedestrian in comparison with the Springboks backs, only Robinson showing any flair and directness in attack'

Certainly, Graham Henry’s men will be fidgeting with discomfort - because on the form they have shown in thrashing Samoa and now England, John Smit and his mighty Boks are the team to beat in this World Cup..

In the end, they settled for three tries, two from wing flier JP Pietersen and one from Juan Smith - plus one penalty from Francois Steyn plus 18 points from Percy Montgomery‘s immaculate boot (we’ll forgive him those three missed drop-goal attempts). But their exhilarating back line looked like scoring a try every time they attacked - and fortunately for England they chose to contain for much of the game rather than let loose. England looked pedestrian in comparison, only Robinson - whose World Cup may well have ended after he pulled a hamstring in the second half - showing any flair and directness in attack.

The big danger for England, who may well now be the worst of the four home nations, is that they will lose to Samoa next week and suffer the ignominy of going out at the pool stage.