In front of Prince Harry, world No.1 England made a solid case for the World Cup crown in its 25-6 win over a spirited South Africa in Perth.

The bad blood between the two pool C sides was never exposed as loyal subject Jonny Wilkinson's trusty left boot guided England to victory with 20 points.

The five eighth kicked five from five and booted two drop goals in another ice-cool display.

It sees the Red Rose move toward a likely quarter-final with Wales while the Springboks are now on track to meet the All Blacks in the final eight.

The two teams played in front of the Webb Ellis Trophy and competed like everything was at stake in a tight contest until late in the second half.

But England coach Clive Woodward will be concerned about the way his renowned forward pack struggled to dominate the `Boks' big men.

However his players did exact revenge for the 44-21 quarter-final loss at the last World Cup and kept South African from breaching their tryline.

It was only the 1995 World Cup winner's second loss in tournament history after losing in the semi-finals to Australia four years ago.

Springboks five eighth and goalkicker Louis Koen (two from six) had a lamentable night and it was a Will Greenwood try from a charge down of his kick which turned the match in the 63rd minute.

Flanker Lewis Moody charged down Koen's kick on his defensive 22 with Greenwood soccering the ball ahead before touching down.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP