ENGLAND HAVE HANDED New Zealand a life-line in their World Cup semi-final by gifting Ardie Savea a try.

A brilliant first-half performance saw England move into a 10-0 lead by half-time. 

George Ford extended England’s lead with a second-half penalty, before a calamitous error from Jamie George set up a tense ending to the game.

A miscommunication saw George overthrow a lineout right into the hands of New Zealand’s Savea, who had the easiest of tasks to dot down unchallenged from just a few meters out.

The error was a disaster after what had been a brilliantly disciplined performance by Eddie Jones’ team up to that point.

England had set out their stall early by lining up in a V-formation as they faced the Haka.

And in a blistering start to the game, England went straight for the jugular as they sensed opportunity, and needed just 90 seconds to breach the New Zealand defence in Yokohama.

Elliot Daly made the initial break, before strong carries from Kyle Sinkler and Courtney Lawes brought England right up to the New Zealand line.

On the seventh phase, Manu Tuilagi was able to pounce over a small gap from short distance to put England 5-0 up with less than two minutes on the clock.

Owen Farrell converted with ease to take full advantage of the early break-through.

And while England had been hugely impressive in limiting the All Blacks’ opportunities, George’s error could prove to be hugely costly.