Johnson points to England's mental strength

World Cup: Martin Johnson yesterday tried to take stock of England booking a World Cup final showdown with defending champions Australia, but admitted: "It hasn't really sunk in yet."

Johnson has captained England to victories over Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, a Six Nations Championship Grand Slam, and also led two Lions tours.

But the crowning glory of his 82-cap England career could now be just six days away.

"To be in a World Cup final means that you've got one chance for the ultimate prize in the game. Both teams are 80 minutes away from that, so it's massive," he said. "We will keep our feet on the floor, and prepare to meet a team who played the game of the tournament to beat New Zealand.

"At this stage of the tournament, the mental side of it is as big a factor as the physical side. You saw that with Australia on Saturday - they ground New Zealand down.

"We respect Australia as a very good and talented team. They are very clever and very shrewd. They know how to peak for games and how to play against people. It should be a fantastic match," he added.

Not for the first time, Jonny Wilkinson was England's hero, moving past 800 Test points in the process, despite appalling conditions which produced driving rain and a gusting wind.

"It was interesting, in terms of the weather," Wilkinson admitted.

"We had to take it into account, but we like to think we were prepared to deal with it. The rain hit us, and we had to look at how best to manage our team in those conditions. I think we did a fairly good job.

"We all knew it wasn't going to be the most spectacular game of rugby. But as always, the aim was to win - and the final result worked in our favour."

England forwards coach Andy Robinson said: "It was a magnificent effort by the forwards.

"There have been various comments made about them, whether they are too old. But as always, they've gone out and performed. It was magnificent, and I've got total respect for them."