Cardinal Cormac sends message of support to England Rugby team

Cardinal Cormac Murphy-O'Connor, has today sent a message of support to the England Rugby team as they prepare for the World Cup Final against Australia tomorrow. Cardinal Murphy-O'Connor, who played rugby at a senior level in England and Italy, said: "As a life long rugby fan, I have followed the home nations' performances in this World Cup very closely and, like millions of others across the country, will be following every kick and tackle live on television tomorrow morning. "We have seen some tremendous performances from the England team in this competition already and as we approach the climax of the tournament in Sydney, I know they will continue to do us all proud." The following message from the Cardinal has been faxed to the England team at their hotel in Australia: "There is real sense of joy and pride in your performance in this Rugby World Cup. You have been great ambassadors for England and for rugby. The whole nation is behind you today, willing every man in the team to new heights and new success. We cannot expect God to take sides on a day like this, but my prayer will be, of course, that the best team does win. Good luck and God Bless."