Borthwick credits clinical All Blacks

Captain Steve Borthwick believes England were given a lesson in clinical finishing during their 44-12 defeat to New Zealand

Captain Steve Borthwick believes England were given a lesson in clinical finishing during their 44-12 defeat to New Zealand.

The tourists' unhappy trip ended with a second comprehensive defeat to the All Blacks, who clinched the two-Test series 2-0.

“We've got to credit the All Blacks,” said Borthwick.

“Whenever they saw a tryscoring opportunity, got close to the line, they took those opportunities.

“We had some opportunities in the first half. We didn't take them and ultimately that cost us.

“We were a long way away at half-time. It could have been a lot closer.

“But I'd like to credit the England boys, the way they stuck at it.

“We know our precision let us down but outstanding effort.”

Borthwick insists England had prepared well for the game but felt they were let down by their execution as New Zealand ran in five tries to two.

“Our preparation's gone well,” Borthwick said.

“Ultimately, it's about the 80 minutes. You can have a great week's training but it all comes down to the 80 minutes.

“Last two games, we've been found wanting against a very strong opposition.”