BEST MATCH: France v New Zealand. This was my pre-tournament selection for the final. I wish I had been correct because it had everything: four great tries, brave defence, drama in the final moments, controversy in the second, brilliant French try, passion from both sides, heartbreak for the "All Greys", ecstasy for Les Bleusand a fairytale ending for the hosts.
WORST MATCH: Romania's clash with Italy. Scarcely a back on the field who could chew gum and walk at the same time. Lord Lucan and Elvis were hiding in the three-quarter lines.
BEST MOMENT: The Los Lobos (Portugal) try - scored by Rui Corderio - against New Zealand. Although the ball was picked up and driven about 20 centimetres (eight inches) for the touchdown and the Kiwis were by then 50 points clear, the Portuguese players and supporters celebrated with such boundless joy it was truly infectious.
OUTSTANDING PLAYER: Jonny Wilkinson. He has had more impact on the winning of matches than any other player. His crossfield "Beckham pass" kicks created tries.
His drop-goals and place kicking under pressure were unbelievable.
His tackle on Fabien Pelous graphically illustrated that skill and technique can triumph over size and strength. His emotional control, sportsmanship and total dedication to perfection are extraordinary.
BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT: It has been an exciting and gripping tournament where the "minnows" grew into sharks and world rankings were an unreliable guide to performances. What a shame the final we got was between two teams who were as grey as the New Zealanders' alternate strip.
