Speaking to Rugby Pass, Matt Giteau recalls his memories of the 2003 RWC final against England in his home country.
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The versatile back pinpoints a moment where eventual match-winner Jonny Wilkinson hit him with a interesting looking tackle by modern standards.
Wilkinson and Giteau played together at Toulon later in their careers.
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‘5/10’ – How the England players rated for 2003 World Cup triumph
This is how the BBC rated Sir Clive Woodward's England stars following their nail-biting 20-17 win against Australia in the 2003 Rugby World Cup final.
Josh Lewsey: Again proved his worth in the number 15 jersey. Made some dynamic runs and kept the pressure on the Aussie midfield. 7
Jason Robinson: Always looked dangerous with the ball. Had little chance stopping Australia's try, but did his job at the other end touching down. 8
Will Greenwood: Handled the ball well with some creative touches and put in some big tackles but ultimately failed to shine. 6
Mike Tindall: More direct than creative, but did the job he was asked to do. Produced a vital clearance in the second half before making way for Mike Catt. 7
Ben Cohen: Worked tirelessly off the ball and did little wrong. Was given little opportunity to show his class with the ball. 6
Jonny Wilkinson: Signalled his intent early on with a tremendous 50 yard kick and came through in style with a last-gasp three-pointer. 9
Matt Dawson: Looked dangerous in patches and moved the ball out of the contact area effectively. A workmanlike display. 7
Phil Vickery: Struggled in the scrum - according to referee Andre Watson - and cost England a late penalty. Ran himself ragged in the second half. 6
Steve Thompson: Solid in the pack and around the park - but again showed his weakness with a number of shaky lineout throws. 7
Trevor Woodman: Another solid display but a number of erratic decisions in open play. Replaced by Jason Leonard after regular time. 6
Martin Johnson: Led from the front and a contender for man-of-the-match. Supreme in line-outs. A true presence on the field. 9
Ben Kay: A performance he will want to forget. Knocked on in front of the line and uncharacteristically struggled in the line-out. 5
Richard Hill: Did not enjoy his greatest performance but was there when he was needed. Replaced by Lewis Moody in extra time. 7
Neil Back: High work rate in the loose and caused problems for Australia when it mattered most. Blotted his copy book with some wayward passing. 7
Lawrence Dallaglio: Showed early match nerves, but soon got into his stride. Made the crucial break which resulted in England's only try. 8












