Autumn internationals as they happened

1. Full-time: Wales 12-6 South Africa
2. Four Halfpenny penalties for Wales, Lambie for South Africa
3. Full-time: England 26-17 Australia
4. England's Morgan scores two tries, Foley & Skelton for Australia
5. Watch Wales v South Africa again by going into Live Coverage/On Now tab

Getty Images

So, what have we learnt from the autumn internationals? Wales can actually beat southern hemisphere teams, though they perhaps still need to be more streetwise; England have work to do but end their autumn international series on a high, while Ireland and Scotland have both impressed this month. It bodes well for the Six Nations. See you in February!

Rugby union forum

Keith Wood

Former Ireland hooker on BBC Red Button

"I'm looking forward to the Six Nations already. There's something magic about it. I think Ireland have to go into it as favourites, given the way they've performed over the year. They've been excellent.

"I'm hoping and believing that they have gone past that metal hurdle of dealing with the favourites tag."

Rugby union forum

Jeremy Guscott

Former England centre on BBC Red Button

"I think the Six Nations is going to be incredible competitive. I know we say it pretty much every year but Scotland have improved under Vern Cotter, Ireland have kicked on from winning the Six Nations, Wales have ended a disappointing year with a fantastic victory, England have huge resources and Italy pushed South Africa close.

"But Ireland look an incredibly smooth, well-oiled machine. The one flaw in that is that they're a one-trick horse; they're kicking, they're chasing and defending. I've seen phase one of the Joe Schmidt plan; I'd like to see phase two and phase three."

Wales 12-6 South Africa

South Africa lock Victor Matfield, speaking to BBC Sport about the injury to Jean de Villiers: "It's not looking good for Jean. He's had a bad run of injuries. He thinks it's pretty bad. We're hoping it's not as bad as it looks.

On South Africa's performance: "We're still a year away from the World Cup, but this is not up to our standards. We're not happy with the tour, having lost two matches, but there are still some senior players to come back and I'm sure we'll come back before the World Cup.

"We got the yellow card with 18 minutes to go. The aim was not to concede any points in those 10 minutes, and we managed that. Then we had a chance to score. We didn't get a clean scrum at the end and that cost us. Rugby is a game of centimetres."

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"England's autumn has been six out of ten tops, but it's been a good finish."

England coach Stuart Lancaster: "We've still got lots to work on, we know that. We have some good players to come back into the equation ahead of the Six Nations. We played intelligently today, kicking at the right time, turning them and using our set-piece. And the boys executed the gameplan. The scrum was excellent, as was the maul. But that was the game today - you have to play rugby in different ways.

"We've got a good pack. We're not just a set-piece side, because we're bound to run up against scrums that'll match us. But against New Zealand and South Africa, our game management let us down. Overall, today our game management was much better."

More from Heyneke Meyer: "We didn't cope well with the pressure and, at this level, you have to convert your pressure. You want to win every single game, but there's still time to fix things. You have to put guys in a situation and see how they cope. Some of the guys didn't cope, but you have to look at yourself as a coach."

Wales 12-6 South Africa

South Africa coach Heyneke Meyer, speaking to BBC Sport: "I thought Wales played well and were the better team. We normally build momentum in the last 20 minutes, but there were two big turning points. We lost our captain and got a yellow card. But Wales were the better side.

"Losing our captain was a big set-back. Jean has had so many knee injuries. Victor Matfield's a great leader. But I feel really sorry for Jean. I hope he will be back for the World Cup."

Rugby union forum

Martyn Williams

Former Wales captain on BBC Red Button

Should World Rugby focus on ensuring a full 80 minutes of play as far as possible at the Six Nations?

"I can't see why when the scrum-half has got the ball, the clock stops until the ball comes out of the scrum. When it's 77 minutes gone and the scrum goes down, that's more or less the game over."

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Getty Images

England's George Ford: "Everybody wants to win against a brilliant Australian team. It's a good feeling and I thought the performance was very good. Our game management was also good - we were a bit smarter than we have been in recent weeks.

"The forwards laid the platform for us to create chances and hopefully score tries. It was nice to repay the forwards back.

"Today was a step up for me, from Premiership to Samoa to Australia. But I've had good people around me and the training gets you ready for international rugby. It's been perfect for me and I've really enjoyed it."

"He was a good eight or nine out of 10 today," says Jeremy Guscott of Dan Biggar's performance at outside-half. The Ospreys fly-half defended superbly and controlled the game.

Rugby union forum

Martyn Williams

Former Wales captain on BBC Red Button

On the second-half sin-binning of South Africa's Cornal Hendricks: "I don't think it was a yellow card. It was a debatable penalty. When it's slowed down, it looks a lot worse than it was. Leigh Halfpenny's jumping into Cornal Hendricks if anything. But I don't think it was the deciding factor in the game. If Leigh Halfpenny lands on his feet, it wouldn't be a penalty."

More from Warren Gatland: "I think we're a long way ahead of where we thought we'd be. Our fitness in those big games was excellent. We kept going right to the end. There are still things to work on, but we showed today that we can compete with the big teams."

Wales 12-6 South Africa

Wales coach Warren Gatland, speaking to BBC Sport: "We should have won by more. We've pushed the big three pretty close in this campaign. We couldn't get across the line for two of those games, but we've done it today.

"You don't want to be in our coach's box. We made it tough for ourselves. If we'd taken a few opportunities, we'd have won the game more comfortably. We showed a lot of character and I'm very proud of the boys. We try to communicate to the media and the public that these two campaigns are about the World Cup, because that's what we're going to be judged on. We're a long way down the road and we'll get better."

Get involved #bbcrugby

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"That's more like it!! Northern hemisphere ruling. Well done Wales."

Get involved #bbcrugby

Generic Name: I think this tour shows the gap between North and South is narrowing #bbcrugby

Kit Mersey: @Grant (16:31) what on earth are you talking about? Ford and Barritt were immense!! Well done England, great game!

Alistair Lowe: ‏Great result for England. Pack immense at scrum and maul time. Aussies' backs played some beautiful running rugby as well.

Wales coach Warren Gatland finally has time to appear before the cameras and the New Zealander says: "We deserved that. We should have won by more." He goes on to say it's all about the World Cup and believes his players are "a long way ahead of where we wanted to be".

Get involved #bbcrugby

Getty Images

Si Morgan: GET IN THERE WALES YOU ABSOLUTE BEAUTIES!!!

L Higgins: Brilliant brilliant wales performance with guts, guile and a heavy dose of passion

Mathew Hulbert: Wales deserved that win but we made hard work to win

AP

England man-of-the-match Ben Morgan: "Across the board we knew it was going to be a battle, but we've got a lot of leaders in our squad marshalling us on the field. We said all week we had to stick to our gameplan. We had to trust it, and we knew we'd come good in the end."

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Graham Rowntree, England coach: "We had to dig in there and I'm proud of how the lads did that. We keep making little errors and getting out of our own 22 was an issue for a while, but we kept our composure and eked out points at the right times.

"We desperately needed the win - it was vital, because at times our performance levels haven't been as high as they should have been.

"The best thing to restore belief is winning. We had very frank discussions after New Zealand and South Africa, but you always need to look forward.

"We've got a great young set of lads and, today, it was all about getting a win against a big nation. I have worked the lads hard and I'm proud of how they've adapted."

Rugby union forum

Jeremy Guscott

Former England centre on BBC Red Button

"I think the key job for a head coach is getting the selection right. Sometimes it's about instinct and not sticking with people out of loyalty. George Ford performed brilliantly throughout last season. He's been brilliant this season and is performing better than Owen Farrell. The only people who didn't see that were Stuart Lancaster and Owen Farrell's father. It's a decision Stuart should have made a lot earlier."

BBC coverage

A reminder that there's a rugby forum discussing the action until 1700 GMT - you can access it on the Red Button on TV, or in the live tab at the top of this page.

Australia captain Mike Hooper: "England's scrum was really good tonight. We couldn't get any ascendancy against them today. Their set pieces were also all good. We had a disappointing first half but got better in the second. We scored a good try in the second half but couldn't go on from there. We have to hold onto the ball and not give the opposition easy leg-ups.

"There's a long time before we come back together as a group, so this is a disappointing way to finish. We were really close to finishing lots of our passes today, but we just couldn't finish for the majority of the game and that lead to our downfall."

More from England captain Chris Robshaw: "I do feel a little bit of relief right now. A loss today would have lingered with us a bit more.

"We're now looking forward to the Six Nations. We will be ready for Wales in February - but we we'll enjoy tonight and we're pleased with the way we played today and the way the game finished. We're happier today than we were two weeks ago."

Wales captain Sam Warburton leads his players in a lap of honour. The flanker smiling broadly and waving to the crowd. "They just need to learn to close games out," says Jonathan Davies in the commentary box and, perhaps, this victory will give the men in red the belief they need in the closing stages of big Test matches.

England captain Chris Robshaw: "It's been a tough four weeks but I'm so proud of the guys, who have all stuck together. We've simplified things and our play today was more fluid than it has been.

"We are extremely proud of our pack, and the way we've dealt with lots of teams who have come to Twickenham. Hats off to the front five boys."

England 26-17 Australia

England:

Tries: Morgan (2)

Cons: Ford (2)

Pens: Ford (4)

Australia:

Tries: Foley, Skelton

Cons: Foley, Cooper

Pens: Foley

Wales 12-6 South Africa

Wales:

Pens: Halfpenny 4

South Africa:

Pens: Lambie 2

Just a reminder that England, Wales and Australia are all in Pool A at the World Cup in England next year. Fiji and Uruguay make up the numbers.

Wales 12-6 South Africa

Getty Images

Wales captain Sam Warburton speaking to BBC Sport: "I wish people could see how much we've been putting in. We've been getting up at 6am and doing altitude training. You get out what you put in and that's proved the case this afternoon. We've been knocking on the door for so long. This is one of the best achievements I've had in a Welsh jersey."

Wales 12-6 South Africa

Wales man of the match Dan Biggar, speaking to BBC Sport: "It means everything. It's been amazing. All the narrow defeats we've had, and this makes it worth it. We always seem to do it the hard way. Yes, we had doubts. We've thrown it away so many times in the past, but we got there today and this could really help us move forward. Great relief."

Paul Grayson

Former England fly-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"The shape of Australia and the intent they've got to play were all things England should have expected prior to kick-off. The Aussies will pose more problems at the World Cup, but today England showed adventure and played to their strengths. A much better balance in their decision making."

Get involved #bbcrugby

steven rossiter: Great day for the Home Nations. Well deserved England and well deserved Wales

Grant Dommen: One of the amazing things about rugby is that 8 men can beat 15...fortunately for England

william thornton: ‏england beat aus and samoa but lose to NZ and SA. Wales beat samoa and SA but lose to aus and NZ. RWC group a looks interesting!

"I wish people could see the effort we've put in in the last six weeks. We've been doing all sorts, so desperate were we for this win," says Wales captain Sam Warburton, enjoying his first victory over a southern hemisphere side in the red of Wales.

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Getty Images

"There's no question that with the dominance England had up front that the back line were going to enjoy a bit of momentum. But England dictated very well. When Australia played with continuity England looked occasionally vulnerable, but with England able to demolish Australia in the scrum that is often enough on its own to win a match at this level."

Full-time

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"That was thoroughly deserved. Wales were the better side. They could have been more convincing winners. They have to learn to close games out."

"It's everything," says Dan Biggar, when asked what this victory means for his team and his country. The outside-half, voted man of the match, pauses, soaking up the crowd's cheers. "This is a real moment for us moving forward."

Full time

Sure, head coach Stuart Lancaster may have been playing things down beforehand, but England simply had to win this.

After two defeats and a solitary win they needed to put Australia away, and so they did.

The power of the pack was the difference - especially at the scrum - and although concerns remain about the fluidity of England's attacking game, they can take a back seat for now.

These two meet back at Twickenham in the World Cup in less than a year's time - and England have scored a psychlogical blow, although most certainly not a knockout one.

Wales beat South Africa for only the second time in their history, and beat a southern hemisphere side for only the second time during Warren Gatland's tenure.

Full time

The ball goes forward and Wales have done it! Finally, they have done it!

South Africa steal the ball... oh my word... The visitors holding onto possession...

The crowd are singing hymns and arias... Rhys Webb puts in... 10 seconds to go...

Get involved #bbcrugby

Rob Stileman: The England pack is truly immense!

Henry Ellison: Mammoth effort from the forwards, imperious work from Morgan and Lawes. Just our backs that need work before the World Cup.

The scrum collapses. The players must restart. Seconds tick by... 30 seconds to go...

One minute remaining. Wales have possession. They have a scrum in South Africa's half.

There's going to be one final chance for Australia, but this is for the scoreboard only, the game has gone.

But the ball goes into touch and that is that - England secure a vital win.

Wales 12-6 South Africa

Eddie Butler

BBC Sport rugby union commentator

"There's always something at the very end at the Millennium Stadium. High drama. Shaun Edwards feels it. The whole stadium feels it. How about a two-and-a-half-minute scrummage and then a knock-on at the end of it?"

Whoa! Brilliant scrum from Wales, stealing possession - a doff of the hat for Taulupe Faletau - and Willie le Roux - the scorer of that heartbreaking try in South Africa in the summer - knocks on. This is it for Wales, surely?

Cue Jaws music. Taulupe Faletau is penalised from going off his feet and this is whereit might all go wrong for the hosts. Scott Williams simply needs to let the ball go straight into touch, but he chucks it over his shoulder, it goes dead. South Africa have scrum 5m from the Wales line. Shaun Edwards, frothing at the mouth, is on his feet.

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"England have shown such maturity in the last few minutes, which is not something we've said much this autumn. It's real nuts and bolts stuff - when you're in the lead with a couple of minutes to go you've got to be able to see a game out. And England have been nothing if not methodical and clinical... and I love being able to use those words!"

Horrible clash of heads as Brad Barritt tackles Quade Cooper. There's blood everywhere on Barritt's face once again but at least both players seem otherwise OK.

Barritt goes off looking like he's done 10 rounds with Klitschko - both of them.

The final 5 minutes are upon us and these are tense times. Wales' forwards drive forward but the South African scrum holds firm. Wales with a line-out on the halfway line.

Get involved #bbcrugby

Steven Rossiter: Leigh Halfpenny was colossal while on the pitch but Wales are blowing chance after chance to seal the win. Costly??

Matthew Harris: 70 minutes have passed, so the Welsh players are probably wondering why the referee hasn't blown for full time.

Mark Jones: Has Dan Biggar got any socks on? Doubt it. He's tackled himself out of them.

The ball returns to Welsh hands and Rhys Webb sets his backline in motion... Scott Baldwin loses ball in collision but, hang on... Talupe Faletau wins turnover ball and Wales rumble forward once again. Oh. But Dan Biggar knocks on and these final minutes are a catalogue of errors from both sides.

Penalty

England's scrum has been magnificent today and once again they march forwards to win a penalty and relieve the siege.

They then rumble 30m from a line-out drive and win another shot at goal - up steps George Ford for what would surely be the decisive points.

The Bath 10 is right on the money and with England now leading by more than a converted try, that is surely the game.

We're into the last 10 minutes and we know what usually happens to Wales in the final 10 minutes against southern hemisphere teams. Will history repeat itself or can this team write a new chapter? Messy from the men in red, collapsing at the scrum which gives South Africa the chance to find touch and take play away from their tryline.

Paul Grayson

Former England fly-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"What a big let-off for England. Australia came for them then. There was nothing subtle about that Australian attack - three running for the line.

"I don't think I've seen Israel Folau make a mistake in a match, but he's made at least two today, perhaps an indication of weariness after the inordinate amount of rugby Australia have been playing."

Wales 12-6 South Africa

Schalk Brits

South Africa & Saracens hooker on BBC One

"The speech in the circle for South Africa now is: There are 10 minutes left of this tour - let's win this and then go and have a holiday."

Wales, facing 14 men, have put-in at a scrum 5m from South Africa's line. If they don't score from here, the seeds of doubt will sprout and take root. The scrum is turned the full 90 and South Africa steal possession. Oh boy.

Big chance for the Wallabies goes begging five metres out.

Quade Cooper and fellow replacement Kurtley Beale produce some magic as Australia against show their dazzling attacking prowess.

When the ball reaches Israel Folau he does well to draw two men but his pass to the unmarked Rob Horne is a shocker, the winger cannot take it and England escape. Massive let-off for the hosts.

The crowd opt for a rendition of 'hymns and arias' as their team approach the South Africa 22. Fortune sometimes favouring Wales, but they need to make the most of it. Dan Biggar with a dribble of a drop-kick which Willie le Roux knocks forward within 5m of his own line. Could this be it?

Adam Ashley-Cooper is having a big game in the midfield and although he is once again scythed down by Mike Brown, Australoa win another penalty, which they kick to the corner.

Big chance for the 'Bies.

Paul Grayson

Former England fly-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Getty Images

"England scored their second try by applying pressure. They've used their scrum to great affect today. They continue to play smart, even though they've got only a six point lead."

Owen Farrell promptly hacks a loose ball ahead and it's a race to touch down between England's Chris Robshaw and Australia's Israel Folau.

It's a greyhound against a pygmy hippo and Folau wins the race comfortably.

Get involved #bbcrugby

PA

Neil Cowan: That yellow card for South Africa was a joke. Shocking decision.

Dan: Shocking decision, never a penalty let alone a yellow card! They both competed equally, Leigh just jumped higher.

Will Shillibier: Just look at their hands! The intent in the SA players is in their hands when they compete in the air. I also don't care. Wales have lost enough matches through iffy yellow-cards. Just make sure we win this one.

Leigh Halfpenny doesn't seem to know what day it is or what city he's in so Scott Williams comes on for the full-back.

Replacement

Brad Barritt has been stitched up and sent back on, but Owen Farrell stays out there and it's Billy Twelvetrees who is removed from the fray.

Rhys Webb with the dummy but is held up near the posts... Scott Baldwin makes a few yards but with the tryline looming Wales are turned over. Deary me. Could that be the moment which will keep Warren Gatland awake tonight, wondering about ifs, buts and maybes?

Will Skelton is so big he bends time and space - but even with him in harness in the Australia second row England once again marmalise the Wallabies at the scrum.

Jonathan Davies sprints down the wing... Wales switch play... Jamie Roberts barges through midfield... Wales within sight of the try line...

Get involved #bbcrugby

Alex Corbisiero, England and Lions loose-head prop: "Unreal set piece domination! Take a bow boys."

Will it be enough to secure victory?

Wales 12-6 South Africa

Schalk Brits

South Africa & Saracens hooker on BBC One

"I disagree with that decision to send Cornal Hendricks to the sin bin. It was a fair kick, but they both went up for the ball. That could determine the outcome of this game."

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Reuters

"I want this to be a close game, because I want England to have that in their locker, seeing out a game at the death and having that experience to call upon in the World Cup. It'll stand them in good stead."

Looks like you'll get your wish Matt...

Sin-bin

Leigh Halfpenny spills the ball while going for a ball up in the air. There doesn't seem to be anything awry as Cornal Hendricks also challenged for the ball - but the referee calls back play and shows a yellow card to the South African winger. Halfpenny is dazed but will continue. It seems a harsh call.

Penalty

Owen Farrell is on for the bleeding Brad Barritt - meanwhile George Ford will go for goal.

The Bath youngster bisects the sticks from a trick angle and England's lead is back out to six - not enough against the free-scoring Wallabies you suspect.

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Australia have got this ball on a bit of string. They keep the ball and dictate as to where they're going to go. England cannot mark at the moment.

"Australia's two tries have been fantastically constructed and this game is far from over. Both these sides want to attack and create a fluid game, so you've got to keep hold of the ball for the remaining 20 minutes."

Big-hitting by Gethin Jenkins on Eben Etzebeth and the prop's efforts earns Wales a penalty to touch. Under 20 minutes remaining and Wales have yet to introduce a replacement.

South Africa disrupt Wales' scrum but Taulupe Faletau refuses to surrender and the ball comes back Wales' way but they kick away possession. Leigh Halfpenny on his heels, holds firm despite the attention of three South Africans... Jamie Roberts coughs up possession... A fabulous take by Liam Williams under a high ball.. A chaotic passage of play... And breathe.

Try

What do you do when you're lacking power up front?

Call for the biggest man in international rugby.

No sooner have England scored than Australia hit the ignition and produce the sort of all-court try that only they and the All Blacks seem to be able to come up with.

Quade Coooper and Adam Ashley-Copper are prominent before Skelton - all 6ft 8in and 21 stone of him - gets the ball five metres out and goes over in the manner of the Colossus of Rhodes being brought to ground in antiquity.

When the ground has stopped shaking Cooper converts - Australia do not know when they are beaten.

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Not a pretty try. Not entertaining. But England have been shoving Australia off the ball all day long. That second England try is fully, fully deserved and every England forward deserves a pat on the back."

Wales 12-6 South Africa

Eddie Butler

BBC Sport rugby union commentator

Getty Images

"Confirmation coming through that Jean de Villiers has a dislocated knee."

South Africa have made a number of substitutions - too many to mention - but Handre Pollard will come on for captain Jean de Villiers, who is being carried off on a stretcher with the applause of the crowd ringing in his ears. Pat Lambie's day is also done. The outside-half seeing no more action after spilling the ball.

Try

Well, you say that Tom...

Big Ben rings the Wallaby bell once again, but the number eight can thank the rest of the pack for that as England bully forwards from a five metre scrum and Morgan plunges over.

George Ford converts from fairly wide out. England's power game to the fore once more.

Get involved #bbcrugby

Tom Fordyce

Chief sports writer at Twickenham

Getty Images

"England having another creaky second half. Grateful for relentless defence of Lawes and Robshaw's burrowing at breakdown. 13-10, 25 to go..."

Replacement

The mighty Courtney Lawes (who had a knee injury during the week) goes off after making 12 tackles - an astonishing number for a second row in less than an hour - in addition to his carrying, ruck work and scrum and line-out efforts.

On comes George Kruis - big shoes to fill.

Get involved #bbcrugby

Tim Lawley: If the game was 48 minutes long we'd have beaten South Africa by now...

Kris Jacob: It seem Wales have a quality fly half again #DanBiggar

Neil Brierley: A few candidates for man of the match in Cardiff - Halfpenny and Biggar have been brilliant thus far.

Jean De Villiers screams in pain and the centre's face contorts in pain as he receives treatment on the field. It looks like the South African has damaged his knee under a challenge from Taulupe Faletau. A slight delay in play while captain De Villiers is taken off the field on a stretcher.

The Wallabies are starting to crackle and fizz. Quade Cooper's no-look pass to Adam Ashley-Cooper is forward but the officials miss it and the centre makes 40m before Mike Brown halts him.

Does Courtney Lawes have an identical twin? The rangy second row is everywhere today, great to see him right back to his best.

Australia have lost prop Sekope Kepu to injury, on comes Ben Alexander to replace him.

Penalty

Wales' defence rush out and Pat Lambie loses his concentration, fumbling the ball to present Wales with a scrum near the half-way line. Excellent scrummaging by the hosts! The big boys in red earn their team another shot at the posts and Leigh Halfpenny extends Wales' advantage.

Wales 9-6 South Africa

Schalk Brits

South Africa & Saracens hooker on BBC One

"South Africa are just keeping it close to make the game a spectacle. They'll come through in the end."

Get involved via text on 81111

Gareth: This Test match just became a gun fight. And Lancaster is leaving his cannon, Farrell, on the bench. Stupid.

Gareth in Caterham: What we are seeing today is evidence of England's greatest strength and their biggest weakness. Youngs, Twelvetrees, Morgan and Barritt are all having good games. The problem is that in comparison to Wales and Ireland (who only have four provincial teams to pick players for the national team from, whilst England have 12 Premiership teams), England have so many players at a good level, rather than a select few at an excellent level. The result is a group of decent players who don't play together regularly and are all pretty much of a muchness.

Penalty

South Africa prop Coenie Oosthuizen comes in from the side and referee John Lacey spots the transgression. Leigh Halfpenny is the man charged with nudging Wales further ahead. His kick about 25m to the left of the posts... silence inside the stadium... the hosts ahead again.

Ooh, almost an Australian interception as England attack on the Wallaby 22, but Rob Horne cannot quite takes George Ford's pass and England's fans exhale in relief.

Wales 6-6 South Africa

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"From a Wales point of view now, I would turn South Africa and put the ball in the right-hand corner. If I was Dan Biggar, I would drill the ball into the right-hand corner of the 22 as Wales are attacking.

"It's really hard to predict this game. It's going to come down to a moment of brilliance or mistakes."

Penalty

Pat Lambie from the halfway line and it's a monstrous kick from the South African fly-half. We're level once more.

Canny by Liam Williams, placing a foot in touch as he gathers Pat Lambie's restart, giving his team a scrum on the half-way line. 'Bread of Heaven' rings around the Millennium Stadium... but all sorts of mischief going on in the boiler room, Wales collapse and South Africa now have a chance to take aim at the posts.

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"I love the way Australia were manipulating, almost teasing England. And it was all structured, and all of a sudden England's defences were mismatched and Australia pounced. A lovely, lovely try."

Paul Grayson

Former England fly-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"Brilliant play from Australia, probing around England's edges. Ultimately, England opened up after eight or nine phases and it's an easy Aussie score under the posts."

Penalty

PA

Sam Warburton doing the dirty work on the floor and earns his team a penalty, Bismarck du Plessis penalised for not releasing. Leigh Halfpenny with a 43m shot in front of the posts... and over it goes.

Wales turnover ball, go darting down the blindside but the hosts cough up the ball and South Africa now have possession. Fine defending from Leigh Halfpenny, running across to collect Pat Lambie's chip. It's messy. It's disjointed.

Try

Danger! Danger! High voltage!

Well, that's just what Australia do. Bernard Foley puts winger Rob Horne through on an inside pass 40 metres out and the winger draws full-back Mike Brown before passing back to Foley to score. Classic, crisp Wallaby rugby.

Foley also adds the conversion and his reward? Being immediately replaced by Quade Cooper. Tough school Aussie rugby.

Missed penalty

Getty Images

The England pack again fires and George Ford will go for goal - poorly, it has to be said, the ball dying away like a winged snipe.

Slow ball for Wales, but Rhys Webb spins it wide, putting his team-mates under pressure. Jonathan Davies' flicked pass goes forward and South Africa have a scrum in Wales territory. Ominous.

Danger! Danger! as Electric Six warbled. If there's one high voltage team in world rugby that can catch light and run you ragged it's Australia - England still have a tough 40 ahead of them.

George Ford gets us back under way at Twickenham.

Wales 3-3 South Africa

Martyn Williams

Former Wales captain on BBC One

"With the blitz defence strategy that Wales are using, you come off your line and you exert so much energy, that when you get the ball, you're not as fresh as you'd want to be.

"Wales are showing great line speed, it's great risk, but it's great reward. But it could be a contributory factor as to why Wales are tiring in the last 10 minutes of games. It's going to take the wind out of you."

Kick-off

Pat Lambie gets the second half started, with Liam Williams collecting the kick-off.

Get involved #bbcrugby

James Standen: England playing a much better brand of Rugby today, much more suited to the players. Keep putting the Aussies under pressure!!

STONEY: England playing better than in recent weeks but if it's lost from here Lancaster will have no excuses. He'd have to go.

Small Man Peaky: England kicking Australia to pieces here. 2010 vintage from Youngs. England need to neutralise Foley.

The last time Wales and South Africa were 3-3 at half-time (which was in 1970) the match ended 6-6. The players are making their way back onto the pitch so play will be under way shortly.

Get involved via text on 81111

Will in London: With new scrummaging changes, it's difficult to dominate. England always have won the collision, and now scrummaging is devoid of that aspect.

Andy from Armagh: Today is a massive test for England. These Autumn International games are so crucial this year as it's the last time the Northern Hemisphere sides will face their Southern Hemisphere counterparts before next year's World Cup. A win will give that side a huge psychological advantage come 10 months time.

Half-time

Jeremy Guscott

Former England centre on BBC One

"Wales have made about 20% more tackles and gains than South Africa, but does that mean we are going to get them dropping off at the end of the second half?"

Wales 3-3 South Africa

Wales:

Pens: Halfpenny

South Africa:

Pens: Lambie

Half-time

Keith Wood

Former Ireland hooker on BBC One

"Wales are kicking the ball and deliberately keeping it on the field, yet the game doesn't have a whole of shape or invention, as South Africa are not trying to do anything with the ball."

Half-time

BBC

First-half territory and possession belonged to Wales but will they pay the price for not making the most of it?

Brian Moore

Former England hooker on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"The line-out is going well and because of that England are being allowed to play on the front foot. But they have been slightly inaccurate at times, missing out on one or two opportunities that you just hope that won't come back to haunt them later on in the match.

"And Australia have looked very fluent at times - while they remain in contention they are a side that can amass points quickly."

Half-time

Martyn Williams

Former Wales captain on BBC One

"It's an arm wrestle out there at the moment. Nobody can really get a foothold in the game."

Get involved #bbcrugby

What do you make of things so far in Cardiff and London? Let us know via social media using #bbcrugby or on text via 81111.

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

Getty Images

"There have been glimpses from Australia - they have worked out certain England weaknesses. I guarantee Australia will come out with a different strategy, different tactics, to try and combat what has just happened in the last 40 minutes. But they have played 15 Tests in the last 25 weeks, which is absolutely, totally shattering."

England 13-3 Australia

England:

Tries: Morgan

Cons: Ford

Pens: Ford (2)

Australia:

Pens: Foley

Half-time

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"I just think Wales should be in front. They've had a lot of pressure, a lot of territory and a lot of possession. They need to turn pressure into points."

Half-time

South Africa uncharacteristically sloppy in possession, gifting Wales put-in at the scrum and a chance for Rhys Webb to find touch and bring a tense first half to a close.

Wales 3-3 South Africa

Schalk Brits

South Africa & Saracens hooker on BBC One

"If South Africa go in at half-time leading, I don't know what they'll say in the Wales dressing room. Wales should be leading by a lot of points."

Two minutes remaining and Wales are penalised for a wonky throw-in at the line-out. Silly errors. Warren Gatland's men are then penalised for taking the man out, Alun Wyn Jones putting his hand on Victor Matfield's jersey. South Africa inside the Wales 22 once more...

Half-time

Undoubtedly the best half of the autumn from England.

The pack is firing in all aspects - Courtney Lawes is an Australian nightmare in incarnate - but it's what's happening when the ball goes to the half-backs that is really making the difference.

Ben Youngs and George Ford are both kicking accurately to win good field position, and when Ford gets the ball in hand the England backs suddenly look a threat. Promising.

Mike Brown's raking left foot finds grass deep inside Australia territory and the Wallabies' attempt to run the ball back ends in a penalty for side entry at a ruck. Can George Ford put the icing on England's first 40?

Nope, the fly-half's effort slides just wide of the posts with the final kick of the half.

Get involved #bbcrugby

Martin Bayfield, former England and Lions lock forward: "Finally England using their big ball carriers. Bravo Ben Morgan but a relief to see Tom Wood with ball in hand. These boys can play."

Wales 3-3 South Africa

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"Gethin Jenkins had a massive hit there. I have total respect for the front row. He's just smashed someone, he's come off second best, and he's straight into a scrum eight metres from his own line, where the pressure is on."

South Africa nick the ball in the scrum. The visitors go on the attack... Will Wales' defence hold firm? Oof! Gethin Jenkins stands in the way of Bismarck du Plessis. Sam Warburton then turns himself into a brick wall... the pressure increases, but South Africa fumble and Wales are off the hook.

Nearly another try for England after they disrupt an Australian attack.

Ben Youngs kicks deep and Mike Brown and Anthony Watson's eyes both light up as they hare into the Wallaby 22 in chase, but as the latter tries to pick up at full pelt Bernard Foley does just enough to force the error.

A barnstorming run by Eben Etzebeth. The lock brushes aside Samson Lee but can't get away from Leigh Halfpenny's bone-crunching tackle. Wales could have been in trouble, but thanks to their full-back they have a scrum just inside their own 22.

Paul Grayson

Former England fly-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"England finally making good use of their scrum. They're already in the ascendancy and a simple pair of hands sent Morgan through the gap. That's what a scrum is for, to put the opposition under real pressure."

Get involved #bbcrugby

Jonny Mango: I'm all for TV referrals for close calls, but that was ridiculous. Such a clear try. Owens said it was. Why bother?

James Humberstone: Courtney Lawes is having a stormer.

Paul Bradshaw: 30mins of awesome rugby by England! Let's see if we can put 80 together now!

Wales 3-3 South Africa

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

Getty Images

"Wales have had so much pressure and so much territory and it's still 3-3. This is ominous."

Missed penalty

The touch judges look at each other and decide Pat Lambie's effort didn't' make it. Incredibly, we're still even-stevens with under 10 minutes of the first half remaining.

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"That England scrum was advancing at a rate of knots. That will send fear through the Australian pack, knowing they're going to be facing that each time."

Wales have the upper hand, but for how long will they have momentum? Oh. Wales go long at the line-out and the ball bobbles over every man. John Lacey blows his whistle. Dan Biggar, stuck in the bottom of the ruck, doesn't roll away. And Pat Lambie has a chance to aim for the posts.

Wales 3-3 South Africa

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"Wales have to get something from this pressure. You can't have so much momentum and not get any points, because South Africa will have their time in this game."

Another line-out won by Wales, the men in red rumble forward and it's Leigh Halfpenny who is within sniffing distance of the whitewash, but oh my giddy aunt, the hosts are turned over and South Africa have a scrum on their own 22.

Try

AP

Try for Ben Morgan? Looks like it to me but the TMO will rule - it is!

An Israel Folau knock-on gives England a scrum inside the Wallaby 22, they march forward and then give it a lash with an advantage safely tucked away.

Brad Barritt hammers over the gainline in midfield, quick ball follows and Ben Youngs and Tom Wood combine to feed number eight Morgan, a rampaging barrel of a man, and there's no stopping the Gloucester man from 10 metres. Great try by the sticks.

South Africa have Lwazi Mvovo to thank once again as the winger collects a kick ahead from Jonathan Davies. Wales, though, this time win the line-out and are awarded a penalty as Victor Matfield is penalised. Wales opt for a touch-finder, increasing the pressure, turning the screw... "Wales! Wales" scream the crowd.

The tourists go into the corner, win the line-out and wave after wave of Australian gold crashes on the white cliffs of England.

But the hosts hold firm and captain Chris Robshaw limpets onto the ball at a ruck and wins the penalty - relief for the hosts.

From one end to the other as Wales lose their own line-out and Pat Lambie shuffles the hips and waltzes through a bunch of red-shirted defenders. He kicks ahead and defence has been turned into attack - but Leigh Halfpenny superbly clears the danger and, eventually, Wales are on the attack once more.

Wales have enjoyed 59% of possession but, perhaps, just need a touch more poise in the crucial moments. South Africa engage too early in the scrum, which gives the hosts another opportunity to go pumping and snorting into South Africa territory. A bit of ping-pong in midfield, but the ball falls to Dan Biggar and the outside-half craftily kicks into the corner, turning the visitors onto their heels.

Getty Images

Australia are starting to hit their stride out there. A gliding run from Nick Phipps sets Henry Speight free down the right and England infringe in panic. Penalty Australia - corner or go for goal?

Australia playing hot potato rugby out there and stretching England, but the move breaks down as scrum-half Ben Youngs munches his opposite number Nick Phipps.

Wales 3-3 South Africa

Schalk Brits

South Africa & Saracens hooker on BBC One

"Wales are playing such intelligent rugby. They're playing the right parts of the pitch, but can they keep it up for 80 minutes?"

Quick line-out ball from Sam Warburton gives Wales a honeyed platform. Taulupe Faletau burst through midfield with as much regard to his safety as a crash test dummy. But errors are creeping into Wales' game, with the hosts ceding possession once again. Such errors could prove costly.

Here's another scrum, 30m from the Australia line. Home forwards licking their lips in anticipation, but the scrum does not budge.

England attack off the base down the blind-side and look to feed the flyer Jonny May, but Mike's Brown's pass is not great and Australia survive.

Decibels rise inside the Millennium Stadium as the hosts go wide, Leigh Halfpenny to Liam Williams... the winger with the grubber, but Lwazi Mvovo is alert to the danger, grabs the bouncing ball and runs into touch, giving Wales a line-out on South Africa's 22. Oh, it's nervy.

PA

Dan Biggar is taken out in the air by the charging Ebden Etzebeth. " A genuine attempt to get the ball," says the referee, much to the crowd's displeasure. But Wales have a penalty and their outside-half expertly finds touch.

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"A wonderful tackle from Courtney Lawes, try-saving stuff. He's saved the day, and is quite rightly getting lots of pats on the back. He's the sort of player that can inspire his teammates and can carry England to a victory."

Wales 3-3 South Africa

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"Rhys Webb is closing down the kickers very quickly for Wales. There's some good counter-rucking by the South Africans at the moment."

Missed penalty

Leigh Halfpenny, the man who (almost) never misses, boots the ball onto the upright. It was a tough, lengthy kick for the full-back, though.

What a tackle from Courtney Lawes to deny Adam Ashley-Cooper - the giant second row scythes the Australia centre down at full pelt five metres out.

It's hard to think of any other second row who could have pulled that off and the Northampton man's athleticism brings real dynamism to the England pack.

At the resulting scrum England get right on top and win a penalty to lift the siege.

The Cardiff crowd hiss as they thought Dan Biggar was tackled late, but John Lacey ignores their cries. Jonathan Davies, though, believes Wales should have been awarded a penalty for an apparent trip. Nevertheless, Wales go pumping and snorting into South Africa territory - a cute short line-out giving Wales momentum - and Wales have another chance as South Africa are penalised in the tackle.

South Africa turn over Wales ball... Pat Lambie a touch too cute with the chip, giving Leigh Halfpenny a chance to counter-attack, but he makes little impact. The ball still belongs to those in red, though, and Rhys Webb spins it right.

Penalty

Mike Brown is blatantly taken out as he chases his own kick ahead by Ben McCalman, George Ford to go for goal.

The 21-year-old fly-half is bang on the money and over sails the ball. Silly penalty that from McCalman.

Penalty

It's a tricky one for Pat Lambie, the collector of 16 points in his team's victory over England, but it's a brilliant effort, sailing in between the posts.

Wales 3-0 South Africa

Schalk Brits

South Africa & Saracens hooker on BBC One

"The only way to beat South Africa is with offloads. You need to have offloads and get behind the defensive line."

Oof. Wales penalised for not releasing, which gives the visitors the opportunity to kick into enemy territory. South Africa win the line-out, form a maul... switch left - before Dan Biggar is penalised for not releasing, presenting South Africa with the opportunity to kick to the posts.

Who is the best home nations fly-half and why?

Nicholas Kirwan: I would say Sexton's trophy cabinet speaks for itself!!

Owen Parcell: Sexton on form. For England, I would like to see Ford get a run with Kyle Eastmond at 12 for familiarity.

Here comes the first scrum, England fans. Licking your lips?

Historically England have been dominant against the Wallabies in this phase of the game - have Australia improved?

Looks like it - certainly this time - as the Wallabies lock out a rock solid platform.

A couple of lovely early passes from England inside centre Billy Twelvetrees.

There's no doubting the ability, just whether he can deliver at the highest level, and it's been a classy start for the Gloucester man.

Wales 3-0 South Africa

Jonathan Davies

Former Wales fly-half on BBC One

"Ireland employed a very good kicking game against South Africa and Wales will have to look at that. South Africa are winning the contact at the momebnt and getting over the gain line, but it's about discipline. Dan Biggar has made a great start to this game."

Lwazi Mvovo makes yards down the left flank but Wales' defence holds firm. South Africa getting over the gain line, but brilliant defending by Alun Wyn Jones and Gethin Jenkins earns Wales a penalty and Biggar takes control with a pressure-relieving touch-finder. A breathless opening.

Penalty

Jonny May escapes on a gallop down the left, Australia go offside in midfield and George Ford should level matters.

He does, game on at Twickenham.

The ball sticking to Welsh hands like glue, Alex Cuthbert this time the man supreme under the high ball. Roars echo around the Millennium Stadium - but Jamie Roberts coughs up the ball in contact and South Africa rumble forward, before opting to turn Liam Williams but the Scarlets man is alert and it will be a drop out from the 22.

Matt Dawson

Former England scrum-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"There will be a bit of a Michael Hooper v Chris Robshaw battle throughout today. And discipline will be absolutely crucial, which is something we've spoken about all autumn. Australia will mix things up, chase some England tails and England must be wise to it. Australia are dangerous when they're in this kind of mood, coming off the back of a couple of defeats."

Penalty

Getty Images

South Africa are penalised for not releasing and up steps Leigh Halfpenny. The full-back takes off his cap, goes through his familiar routine - it's wide to the right of the uprights - and he bisects the posts.

Penalty

Ben Morgan's pinged for not releasing at the breakdown, shot at goal for the Wallabies.

It's a simple kick for the Australia 10 and it bisects the sticks to get the scoreboard ticking over.

Brilliant by Biggar, swallowing the high ball and giving his team-mates the platform to attack. The men in red snipe down the right before Jamie Roberts, without concern for his wellbeing, runs into a South African wall. Wales retaining possession, South Africa's defence holding on.

Kick-off

Short, sharp shrill of John Lacey's whistle. Dan Biggar boots the ball and off we go.

Here we go... Bernard Foley hangs it high for Australia, Tom Wood claims for England and off go the hosts!

A rampant driving maul takes them 20m before Ben Youngs snipes, but Billy Twelvetrees slips and the hosts are turned over at the breakdown.

BBC Coverage

BBC

As the Welsh national anthem rings around the Millennium Stadium, we should tell you that you can watch live coverage of Wales versus South Africa by visiting the 'live coverage' tab on the top of this page, or you can tune into BBC One on your television (presuming you bought one yesterday). There's also live coverage of England versus South Africa on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra. Plenty of outlets. Plenty of action.

And speaking of our chief sports writer, Tom Fordyce is at the game today. Here's what he has to say: "I'm coat-less. I haven't gone coat-less in the north since late June.

"An autumn which started badly for England, got worse and then plateaued must finish with a flourish against the Wallabies this afternoon or it will be a long, bleak midwinter for Stuart Lancaster and his men. A beautiful sunny day at Twickenham, and a similarly uplifting performance required."

By the way, England have tried 43 different combinations at centre since the 2003 World Cup. Let Tom Fordyce explain the midfield minefield.

Ultimately, it doesn't matter who wins or who loses today. It doesn't matter at all. Quiet around the Millennium Stadium as a minute's silence is held in memory of Phillip Hughes who died this week playing cricket.

Brian Moore

Former England hooker on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"To be fair to Stuart Lancaster, he wants to play a centre partnership of Manu Tuilagi and Luther Burrell, and neither are available. England are hamstrung by injury but they have to get on with it. If today they don't win, he'll be under so much pressure to make changes that even though he's such a level-headed man he might not be able to resist the temptation."

England v Australia (14:30 GMT)

Paul Grayson

Former England fly-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"I think England did know who their best fly-half was at the start of the autumn, but Own Farrell has played virtually no rugby this year. For me, that was the time to put George Ford in and then they would have found out in the first two games what they didn't get the chance to find out in the summer because of his shoulder operation.

"The door's open for George Ford today. It's going to revolve around him. He's been waiting for the opportunity, but it's one England should have given him three games ago."

Who is the best home nations fly-half and why?

John McEnerney: Sexton by a country mile - he showed his game management is superb from the hand or the boot. Benefitted from the two years in Top 14.

Kev: Not even a debate to have. Sexton miles ahead of any of the other 10s at the moment. George Ford has best potential of the rest.

Edu: Sexton clearly the best home nations fly-half but Biggar will be challenging him for that spot soon, he's in the form of his life.

Team news

Sam Warburton and his men are lining up in the bowels of the Millennium Stadium, dragon-like flamers are flaring up around the pitch, but here's who will be entertaining us this afternoon:

Wales: Halfpenny, Cuthbert, J. Davies, Roberts, L. Williams, Biggar, Webb, Jenkins, Baldwin, Lee, Ball, A. Jones, Lydiate, Warburton, Faletau.

Replacements: E. Phillips, Jarvis, R. Jones, Charteris, King, M. Phillips, Priestland, S. Williams.

South Africa: le Roux, Hendricks, Serfontein, de Villiers, Mvovo, Lambie, Reinach, Mtawarira, B. du Plessis, Oosthuizen, Etzebeth, Matfield, Coetzee, Mohoje, Vermeulen.

Replacements: Strauss, Nyakane, Redelinghuys, de Jager, Carr, Hougaard, Pollard, de Allende.

Referee: John Lacey (Ireland)

England field yet another re-jigged centre partnership as Billy Twelvetrees is recalled to play alongside Brad Barritt.

Dylan Hartley and Tom Wood come back into the pack but the biggest call is probably at fly-half.

George Ford starts at 10 for the second game in a row with Owen Farrell, who was moved to 12 last weekend, relegated to the bench.

Wales coach Warren Gatland, speaking on BBC One: "We've had a good look at South Africa. I'm not sure the best team turned up against Ireland in Dublin, and they got turned over. We have to make sure our kicking game's good.

"We've spoken this week and the theme has been that we have to keep going every moment for 80 minutes. I can't fault the effort last week but one or two individuals switched off for a moment or two, and we have to make sure we don't do that."

Wales v South Africa (14:30 GMT)

Northampton wing George North, ruled out of Wales' match against South Africa after suffering a blow to the head against New Zealand last Saturday: Gutted not to be playing today! But best of luck to the Welsh Rugby Union men! Wales by 7!! Come on boys!

Team news

England: Brown; Watson, Barritt, Twelvetrees, May; Ford, Youngs; Marler, Hartley, Wilson, Attwood, Lawes, Wood, Robshaw, Morgan.

Replacements: Webber, Mullan, Brookes, Kruis, Haskell, Wigglesworth, Farrell, Yarde.

Australia: Folau; Speight, Ashley-Cooper, Toomua, Horne; Foley, Phipps; Slipper, Faingaa, Kepu, Carter, Simmons, McMahon, Hooper, McCalman.

Replacements: Hanson, Robinson, Alexander, Skelton, Jones, White, Cooper, Beale.

Referee: Jerome Garces (France)

Wales v South Africa (14:30 GMT)

Martyn Williams

Former Wales captain on BBC One

"Wales have been answering the same questions, week in, week out, for the last five or six years: Why do we let things slip in the last 10 minutes? I'm hoping you'll see a desperate, frustrated Wales team today putting some questions to bed. But they'll need a performance against a very big South Africa side."

A test of character - Meyer

South Africa coach Heyneke Meyer has gone in front of the cameras and predicts: "it's going to be a real test of character for our team".

"I truly believe they've been unlucky," he says of Wales' record against the southern hemisphere teams. Even in South Africa they've been unlucky. They're a great side, but we have to control what we can control and take it to them and be physical."

A tribute to Phillip Hughes

@EnglandRugby

England Rugby: Bats have been placed by the England and Australia benches as marks of respect for Phillip Hughes. #putoutyourbats

Australia Test cricketer Hughes, 25, died on Thursday after he suffered a blow to the neck during a domestic match in Sydney.

Ian Robertson

BBC rugby union correspondent on Radio 5 live sports extra

"I don't think England know what their best centre pairing is. If you were to ask six ex-internationals for their selections, you would probably get five different pairings.

"At Bath, George Ford pairs well with Kyle Eastmond and Jonathan Joseph. With England, I think Stuart Lancaster will always put down Mani Tuilagi; he's strong, he has a low centre of gravity. One of those in every team is great. Luther Burrell would probably be the one Stuart would like in there, but he's been injured, so he's given Billy Twelvetrees a last chance. He's not really fulfilled his potential at international level."

Lewis Moody

Former England captain on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"England have to win today. Over the last three weeks, they have left too many points on the pitch. George Ford is an exciting selection. I don't think there's a lack of attacking talent in this side, but how are they going to get the ball to them?"

Huge - that's how Lewis Moody describes it and it's hard to disagree. England need to win today to reignite belief they are on an upward trajectory.

These two sides meet in the World Cup in less than a year's time.

Today's game is not relevant, say the players and coaches. The fans? They're not to sure - there's surely a big psychological marker to be laid down today.

Get involved #bbcrugby

Owen Farrell is out of the picture, for now at least, but who is the best home nations fly-half? George Ford showed promise against Samoa, while Dan Biggar has a controlling influence over Wales - but there's also Jonny Sexton and Scotland's Finn Russell to think of. So, who would be your pick and why?

Tweet us using the hashtag #bbcrugby or text 81111 - with your name and RUGBY before your message. Alternatively, you could write your thoughts on BBC Sport's Facebook page.

PA

There's no Owen Farrell in the England line-up this afternoon with the Saracens man making way for Billy Twelvetrees. How did Farrell react to being overlooked for the first time since June 2012? "His reaction is very much what you would expect from a professional rugby player... not accepting it is the right thing," said backs coach Andy Farrell of his son's demotion.

There's too much going on for one keyboard so James Standley has warmed up, slapped some Vaseline over his eyebrows, gone through what looked like of war dance and is ready to join the action, guiding you through all that's going on at Twickenham.

What the papers say

The Guardian's Paul Rees writes of Wales' late, late defeats against the big three: "It is at the point when a match reaches the stage when fatigue, mental and physical, sets in, and it becomes about what lies deep within, that Wales lose their grip. They are vulnerable when a Test swivels on playing rather than coaching."

PA

"You cannot overemphasise how important this game against Australia is. It is huge," says Lewis Moody in his column in the Independent. "The importance of ending the autumn campaign on a high and going into the Six Nations remembering a win, and playing with confidence, really cannot be overstated."

Other opinions and other media outlets are available.

Paul Grayson

Former England fly-half on BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

"It's the last of the four Autumn internationals for England, and by now, you should be seeing something cohesive. You need to be at something like your best, and England have been nowhere near it so far."

Australia's away day blues

BBC

England's record against Southern Hemisphere teams isn't as pitiful as their neighbours Wales, and Stuart Lancaster's men might be confident of victory against a team which has lost five of their last six away games.

World Cup, World Cup, World Cup...

"We have spoken about the pressure that can build, especially with a home World Cup," captain Chris Robshaw said this week. "And we definitely feel that all the outside stuff has built up more this autumn than in previous campaigns.

"But it is about embracing that. We have got a fantastic opportunity to go out there on Saturday and do something special."

Getty Images

Alastair Eykyn

BBC Radio 5 live sports extra commentator at Twickenham

"Today, almost for the first time since he took over, Stuart Lancaster is as tight as a drum. He looks nervous. This is a huge game for him."

Travel chaos

Bad news for those still making their way to HQ because there's major travel disruption for many fans travelling south on the railways to Twickenham after a police incident at Watford Junction.

BBC Radio 5 live Breakfast presenter Rachel Burden, who is trying to get to the game, has been live tweeting:

"Not great news for Eng fans heading for Euston. We're all stuck due to incident further up the line. Going to be very tight to get there.

"Moving very slowly now. Any advice on the quickest route from Euston to Twickenham? Had planned tube and train...

"We've made friends with fellow travellers so it's all for one and one for all now. Handy for shared taxi fares!"

PA

The World Cup rehearsal

There's a Test match being played in Twickenham too? Ah, yes, the World Cup dress rehearsal, before England and Australia clash in the pool stages next year. Will today have any bearing on what happens in 2015?

Maybe, maybe not, but having lost to New Zealand and South Africa this month, Stuart Lancaster's men need a victory to show the world they can be contenders for the big prize on home soil next year.

Wales getting close

BBC

Wales have beaten South Africa just once, losing 16 of the following encounters since that historic 1999 victory. But if the men in red are seeking some sort of solace, at least recent encounters have been close.

Gatland's sleepless nights

Wales coach Warren Gatland said this week he endures sleepless nights after narrow defeats by major southern hemisphere teams, which means - if my calculations are correct - the poor New Zealander hasn't had a good night's sleep for about eight years.

Wales' record of one win in 27 Tests against Australia, New Zealand and South Africa - the solitary victory coming against Australia in 2008 - has led to some questioning of Gatland's leadership.

But Gatland says it's nothing he can't handle: "You thrive on criticism - that's part of professional sport. And I'm like the players - if we lose a match I don't sleep for a couple of nights..."

Getty Images

Hello! Welcome to live text commentary of a couple of autumn international matches, where both England and Wales take on southern hemisphere behemoths for the final time this year. One last chance to beat the best. One last chance for November glory. One last chance to loosen the pressure valve.

I'm guessing you know, but Wales are hosting South Africa while England will take on Australia. Both matches kick off at 14:30 GMT, which makes for a fun afternoon.

PA

It's the sleepless nights which are the worst. The tossing and turning over missed tackles, fumbles and silly indiscretions. Near misses turn into mind-churning what ifs. Scrambled thoughts haunt into the early hours. Defeat after defeat after defeat. Bad luck or bad play? The ticking of the clock gets louder and louder. Night turns to day and still there is no solution. But how will you sleep tonight, Messrs Gatland and Lancaster?

Getty Images