BEST MATCH: France v New Zealand. It was a compelling spectacle, the intensity of the physical exchanges counterpointed by cameos of high-quality rugby. The French tackle count was truly phenomenal as was the resilience they displayed. Ultimately paralysed by they desire not to lose, the All Blacks lacked the mental clarity to prevail.

WORST MATCH: It would be tempting to cite a couple of Ireland matches but to do so would probably demean the efforts of Georgia and to a lesser extent those of Namibia. So it has to be Italy versus Scotland, when both teams clung to the comfort blanket of the boot. It all degenerated into a kickfest, a seemingly interminable loop of set-piece rugby.

BEST MOMENT: The final whistle in the match between Fiji and Wales that confirmed a truly staggering performance and ultimately victory for the Pacific islanders. The instinctive running and handling the Fijians produced in that match - and in their quarter-final against South Africa - were a joy to behold.

OUTSTANDING PLAYER: The South African scrumhalf Fourie du Preez. His performance in the 36-0 victory over England was wonderful, replete with all the qualities you would hope for in a world-class player.

BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT: From a slightly parochial perspective it has to be the fact Ireland failed to fire a shot at the tournament. It's not simply about the failure to reach the quarter-finals but rather the abject manner of the performances. It was one long, error-strewn mess on and off the field. It was also an opportunity lost to represent the sport in this country in a positive light.