By Chris Bevan

606: DEBATE Your thoughts on the final

2215: That's it from me for tonight folks - Bonne nuit mesdames et messieurs - wherever you are! Rest assured that Sam Lyon will be with you by 0900 BST on Saturday to take you through all the build-up to the final as the countdown to the Rugby World Cup final (at 2000 BST) continues.

He won't be alone though - he will have plenty of chat from you lot on 606 and via text (81111) as well as giving you the best from Five Live and the England and South Africa camps in France.

Our intrepid on-the-spot reporters in Paris Ben Dirs, Tom Fordyce and Mark Orlovac will also be letting you know what they are up to as they make their way to the Stade de France (and, in Tom's case, try to find a way in!).

Just in case you have forgotten about that tremendous (or quite possibly terrible) trio, have look through these online profiles to refresh your memories...

2158: I was in Las Vegas when Jonny Wilkinson won it in 2003 - although you wouldn't have guessed from the hundreds of fans packing out the only British bar (we could find) in town - and to be honest I don't really remember much about it either. Even if you will be watching alone tomorrow, you won't be on your own! Enjoy the game, wherever you are!

"We're having a few beers with a bunch of English ex-pats (and one bokkie) in Toronto, Canada. 20 dollar cover to watch it at the bar but would have paid a lot more than that willingly to see England in the final 6 weeks ago!"
Falvoe123 on 606

"Just got married and now live in San Antonio,Texas, a long way from being able to watch the Final nobody thought we could get to. The biggest problem being the only sport watched less than "soccer" is rugby, so guess i'll be having to stay in touch with Mr Dirs via my state-of-the-art dial-up connection. SWING LOWWWWWWWW........."
tex_manc on 606

"I will be in The Field Irish Pub in San Diego, a lighthouse amongst the South Africans. In 2003 I was at home just yelling and screaming on my own - NOT this time - I will be in the thick of it."
Uolbaboon on 606

"Stuck in Germany and whatever happens am tremendously proud of the England team...go boys, GO."
gunnergitcha on 606

"The best way to stop Habana? Get that cheetah to become English and bung him in defence."
Boro4lifeAKA cena-rules on 606

2141: Four England fans, who will be watching tomorrow from four different continents. Kind of brings a tear to your eye how much it means to NZPomy doesn't it?

"Furthest away fan watching the final? How about Auckland NZ. All Black heartland. I think I've died and gone to heaven - England in the RWC final again - I've been here for five years now and for five long years have had to listen to drivel from the All Black fans about how old, crap, useless etc etc England are and how in 2007 they would easily win the final - ha ha ha. It is bliss. They are SO unhappy that it is funny. COME ON ENGLAND - We love ya all."
NZPomy on 606

"I'll be watching somewhere in Perpignan, France wearing the shirt proudly. Flying out tomorow and expecting to see plenty of people at the airport on their way to Paris. C'MON ENGLAND!"
RedHeth10 on 606

"Here I am a Pom in South Africa sitting in a remarkably quite bar, Castle in hand, watching the France v Argentina game. Tomorrow this bar will be packed with the Green and Gold and just the odd patch of white cheering on England!"
Frisby_123 on 606

"I can't wait for this game. England have really surprised me, and to be honest I can't believe they have made it after all the run up games to the worldcup and seeing the SA and USA games...But they have. I will be watching the game in Phoenix, Arizona, USA. It will be me and the family drinking and hopefully celebrating another RWC win. GO ENGLAND!"
BlackCanyon on 606

2128: So how can England win? Well, stopping Bryan Habana - the tournament's leading try scorer with eight - would be a start. Easier said than done though. Any ideas?

"Bryan Habana has been quite outstanding. The England defence has got to try to stop the ball getting to him but, if they can't do that, then Mark Cueto has got to try to stay on his shoulder. If he gets too straight then Habana's acceleration means he gets away - and scores."
Japan coach John Kirwan on BBC Radio 5live

2115: Plenty more England fans from all over the world seem to have made their plans for tomorrow, but where will you be watching?

"One of the few times to see England in a World Cup Final! Join us at the British & Dominion Club in Garden Grove, California for the perfect atmosphere and pint! Come on England!"
TyzerUK on 606

"Well I am going to be watching from the comfort of my armchair in Auckland, where it is fair to say the majority want the Boks to win. Given that it is our provincial rugby final Auckland v Wellington here today as well and I am an adopted Wellingtonian then it would be fair to say I'm not Mr Popular. The Pacific Island community seem to want England though with all the comments of support that I have received when wearing my England shirt to work this week."
Hampshire2006 on 606

"I'll be deep in the heart of the Welsh valleys, proudly wearing the shirt and cheering the boys on."
Mark H, Blackwood via text

2101: Not sure whether we will get an official response from Downing Street about this one, but you never know...

"Why is Gordon Brown going to the England-South Africa final? Should his ticket not go to an England fan - someone who is English? I would make better use of it, for one.
PS. What are chances of a snap general election should England win?
Jecoral_John on 606

"Brian Moore's in Paris eh? I think I've worked out the "new" tactics. Twenty to go - roll on Johno, Rob Andrew (famous last gasp drops just like JW) and the Bulldog...Micky Skinner should be able to neutralise Habana - he could neutralise a French pack that could have taken Tyson.

Oh sorry - bit of a flashback there...
Charlton_Chap on 606

2044: You may think the life of a travelling sports journalist is a glamorous one, but spare a thought for poor old Mark Orlovac after a frustrating and fruitless trip to Parc des Princes tonight.

"In response to Baff's earlier comments - they were England shirts that the waiters were wearing, sorry I should have made that clearer beforehand! After failing to get into the France-Argentina game I am on my way home now, on a deserted train with hardly a soul on it. I wish it was like this earlier."
BBC Sport's Mark Orlovac, still somewhere in Paris

2032: More good chat from Brian Moore, who, let's face it, if he was playing, would probably strike fear into South African hearts even now. You can tell he would love to be out there tomorrow - he won't be - but you have to hope he's right!

"No-one has got at South Africa yet. They have not been put on the rack like England have been three times in a row. I just wonder, with their psyche and being super-confident, if they might not have enough concentration when it comes to the crunch.
Former England hooker Brian Moore on BBC Radio 5live

2024: Thousands of England fans in Paris, even more en-route and of course millions more at home - but who is the furthest-flung fan? If you will be watching tomorrow from afar then let me know where you will be attracting strange looks from the locals.

This isn't a bad start from Fergus1971:

"Will be watching in the Geo pub in Santiago, Chile tomorrow, cant believe we are in the final. Funny but i'm not half as nervous as four years ago, nothing to lose I guess. Wish I was back in the UK to cheer the boys on. Also had SA to win at 7/1 in May so either way wont be a bad day!
Fergus1971 on 606

"Mark Orlovac. I hate to burst your bubble, bud, but those hotel staff members entering into the spirit of things by wearing white shirts? Well, they're called waiters, and they're supposed to wear white shirts, you numpty! Now, if their white shirts have red roses on the chest, I take it all back.
Baff on 606

"Everyone knows the strength of the rose, it grows in splendor as the season flows, destined to crown our 15 heroes and a thorn in the side of our South African foes!"
Giles, Ashford via text

2000: I hate to put a dampener on things but we have to remember that South Africa go into the game as favourites...and why is that I hear you ask!? Well, apart from that 36-0 win over England in Pool A, they have scored 263 points to reach the final - that's 129 more than England.

The Boks have also scored 33 tries at these finals, compared to England's 12. There is such a thing as overconfidence though folks...

"We've had a lot of messages from back home. Hopefully we can stay calm - we know it will be difficult, but we will see what happens."
South Africa scrum-half Fourie du Preez on BBC Radio 5live

1950: Plenty of Ex-England heroes in Paris, and one of them, Brian Moore, has been giving his advice to Brian Ashton. You wouldn't really want to argue with the Pitbull either would you...

"There has been a lot of talk about changes for tomorrow. We can try something unexpected but we can't do anything too complicated early on. England need to do simple things that they know will work."
Former England hooker Brian Moore on BBC Radio 5live

1922: Remember, apart from the final, there is another game still to be played in this World Cup...it's tonight and it's the third-place play-off between hosts France and suprise package Argentina.

Time is running out if you are going to get to Parc des Princes in time for the 2000 BST kick-off, as Mark Orlovac is discovering...

"Desperately trying to get from England's hotel to the Parc des Princes. Metro still shafted so I'm with a music-loving cabbie trying to fight my way through the horrific Parisian traffic. 'Honky Tonk Woman' by the Rolling Stones has just come on the radio which the driver has just turned up so we can have a singalong. It's cheered me up no end."
BBC Sport's Mark Orlovac, somewhere in Paris

"The 1847 from Waterloo has just slipped into the Gare Du Nord to unload the latest batch of England fans. There are still more people here wearing South Africa shirts and I think the bulk of England supporters are going to arrive tomorrow. There are lots of tickets for sale on the black market and about �500 seems to be the going rate."
BBC Radio 5live's Stephen Chittenden in Paris

"I've just left the England team hotel and, unfortunately, I can report that no England players are in fancy dress costumes, although there are a couple of hotel staff who have donned white shirts for the occasion."
BBC Sport's Mark Orlovac in Paris

1847: England won the earlier celebrity well-wishing stakes and it is good to see our politicians are well-organised too:

"There was general support that the European team, that is the England team, should be given all the support of our fellow (EU) members."
Prime Minister Gordon Brown (a Scot), who will attend the final as a guest of French President Nicolas Sarkozy, speaking after European Union summit in Lisbon.

"Why should we possibly doubt England? We lost to South Africa a few months ago without Jonny Wilkinson or Mike Catt and those two have gelled the side into a well-oiled machine - not pretty, but effective.

The thousands of fans who have trekked over there only care about the result and I just have a gut feeling that England are going to do it."
Former England scrum half Matt Dawson on BBC Radio 5live

"Hmmm, I've been talking down our chances before each stage, so here goes again. We have no chance - The Boks are an awesome team and will beat us by 20-30 points. There, done my bit. Just going to look a bit silly when it actually happens.
greatHayemaker on 606

1813: Even as I write, Chris Evans is hosting a special rugby-themed All Request Friday on Radio 2...with plenty of final chat from special guests and listeners. You can get involved too by choosing some of the tunes for the show - something inspirational for our boys please!

1805: Not everyone is in Paris though...

"I gave up a final ticket to be with my wife in Florence! Can anybody please suggest somewhere to watch the game tomorrow?"
Martin, Florence via text

1745: Evening all. So it's 'A bient�t' to Sam and you lot are going to have to make do with me for the rest of the evening. I want plenty of chat on 606 and via text (81111), and I will repay you with the latest from Five Live, the England and South Africa camps in France and our intrepid on-the-spot reporters Ben Dirs, Tom Fordyce and Mark Orlovac...speaking of which...

"It's official, final weekend has gone mental. I've just seen four Zulu-era Redcoats walk off a Eurostar at Gare Du Nord accompanied by a Zulu with a bone through his hair and wearing what appear to be Speedos."
BBC Sport's Ben Dirs in Paris

By Sam Lyon

1735: Right people, I'm off home to rest up before the big day. Chris Bevan will be taking over for the rest of the evening so be gentle with him. And keep the SMSs and 606 chat coming! See you tomorrow!

1729: Well, hosts France may have been dumped out at the semi-final stage of this World Cup, but at least Bernard Lapasset has something to celebrate after the Frenchman was elected as the new chairman of the International Rugby Board.

The 60-year-old replaces Syd Millar and will be assisted by none other than former England captain Bill Beaumont, who takes over as his assistant.

"Looks like my milkman comment earlier was unnecessary, we've got more celebrity support than Live Aid!"
Greeno via text

1723: "I'm so, so proud of this team. Every time we've been asked a question, people have responded. To get to a rugby World Cup final is not about luck - the boys have worked extremely hard.

"We've given ourselves a chance, let's just make sure we give our best and if it's not good enough, it doesn't matter. To go home and to have retained that cup would be unbelievable for all of us. But let's not get carried away - 80 minutes of your life is not long is it?"
England captain Phil Vickery on BBC Radio 5live

"One for Hollywood perhaps? "From Zeroes to Heroes: An Underdog Story." Samuel L Jackson to play Robinson, Yoda plays Ashton? Any other ideas for casting?"
Ben via text

"It's great that England have made it to the final but South Africa have been working towards this for four years and they have to win! If not now then when?"
Johan via text

"Hundreds of Australia fans are now in town for the final, standing round in bunches holding upside down maps, looking confused and possibly wondering why they spent �1000 on their World Cup final tickets and accommodation when their team got knocked out two weeks ago."
BBC Sport's Tom Fordyce in Paris

"Driving home along the A40 and have just passed the Acton Bridges project. There is man, in a full South Africa kit and hard hat, brandishing a cardboard cut-out of the Webb Ellis Trophy with 'South Africa, World Cup winners 2007' written all over it at passing cars. The fact he is behind a wire fence seems to be the only thing preventing motorists from pulling over and addressing the, erm, situation."
BBC Sport's Phil McNulty

1654: "I wasn't in the squad in 2003 and that has been a massive motivational factor for me this time around. I had given up on the set-up in 2004 but I keep listening to the Frank Sinatra song - "A Very Good Year" which says it all."
Mark Regan on BBC Radio 5live

"I am now waiting at La Gare du Nord and the tubes are running - but prepare to be squashed! I'm currently standing next to a taxi queue that is a full 100 metres long. Thankfully, the mate that I'm meeting is loaded so he might be able to bribe his way to the front. Then we can get down to Le Parc des Princes for tonight's play-off asap."
BBC Sport's Ben Dirs in Paris

"I saw Bryan Habana's try against Argentina and that guy is so QUICK! England have improved a lot but South Africa will be too strong for them."
ManBlue4Eva on 606

1634: Good news folks - Anglo-phile Hollywood superstar Samuel L Jackson is also behind the England boys.

"Frankly, I didn't expect you guys to be still here, I'm kinda surprised. I love the South Africans and I've got friends who are playing on that team, but I hope you guys win because it'd be a great underdog story."

1621: Mark Orlovac has published his 'pen pix' of England's squad members ahead of the final for your perusal. Not only does it detail each player's role with unerring accuracy, it points out brilliant facts like Paul Sackey's burger-only diet and Mark Cueto trading in his Porsche 911 for a Mini. What more could you want?

"Message for Will: I was in Amsterdam last weekend - go to Leidesplein for the game. Loads of bars showing the match in a square and the atmosphere was brilliant last Saturday!"
Kate, London via text

1609: Funnily enough, despite Zinzan Brooke claiming he is key to England's plans, South Africa-born Mike Catt's own father won't be cheering on the Lions come 2000 BST Saturday night. Apparently father Jimmy and brother Richard will be cheering on the Boks, while mother Anne and the other two brothers Douglas and Peter will be lending their support to Brian Ashton's side.

"If Mike plays well and England win, then great," says Jimmy Catt. "If he plays well and South Africa win - even better!"

Now THAT'S not going to get testy tomorrow night in the Catt household at all is it...?

"Zinzan claims Catt has a good kicking game? Catt's kicking is appalling. He is an impact player, good at hitting angles, and that's what he should stick to. Giving the ball away is not clever."
anubisrich on 606

1553: "Jonny Wilkinson has given the England team confidence and direction and the way in which he eased that drop-goal over against France makes me think that it might be like 2003 all over again.

"Having Mike Catt outside him is a good combination too. Catt is on his last legs but he has a good kicking game and reads the play well. He is the cement in that backline and his presence takes the pressure off Wilkinson."
All Black legend Zinzan Brooke

"The foyer of my hotel is suddenly awash with fans. Unfortunately, every single one of them is wearing a New Zealand strip. Clearly they made their travel arrangements two years ago."
BBC Sport's Ben Dirs in Paris

"In Amsterdam of all places this weekend! Anyone know of any good bars that will have the game on? COME ON ENGLAND!"
Will via text

"Arriving in Calais at 3pm local time tomorrow. Can anyone offer me a lift?"
George, Reading via text

1532: And while we're on the subject of that 36-0 thrashing at the hands of the Springboks just over a month ago, let us remind our remind web users just how England have gone from write-offs to potential world champions again.

"Have faith in Brian Ashton, it is clear that he knows what he is doing, unlike the Football Manager. Come the result on Saturday I'm sure they are best prepared for the final than they will ever be. They haven't just blundered there way to the final."
Englandlad23 on 606

And anyone South Africa fan who thinks the final will be a walkover given that your boys pasted England 36-0 in the group stages - don't forget the players themselves disregard that as a telling factor just a week ago.

"'Tactical changes'?? Please God not another 1991..."
charlton_chap on 606

"Message for JR go to St George's bar just off La Ramblas in Barcelona. The game will be on live."
Anon via text

1521: BBC Norfolk have had a chat with local club Diss RFC's honorary club chairman Norman Potter about rising England star Dan Hipkiss. The Leicester Tigers lad is tipped by many to have play a leading role off the bench in Saturday's final and web users can read Potter's thoughts on the centre here...

1508: "The most amazing feeling goes through your body - your heart races - your cheek starts jumping because you want to cry but you know can't because it isn't cool. Nelson Mandela stuck out his hand and thanked me for doing this for SA. But I said it should be me thanking him for what he had done because he asked South Africa to support us and wore the Springbok on his shirt.

"The memories of that victory has stayed with people. I drive through small villages where people who didn't have televisions and had listened on the radio and what they did in their townships. That is the power of the sport and it's incredibly special. I was incredibly lucky to be in the right place at the right time."
Former South Africa international Francois Pienaar on the Boks' World Cup victory in 1995

"I put �6 on Australia, I put �6 on France, and I've just put �6 on South Africa. Come on England!"
Chris, Fleet via text

1457: "The main thing about a final is that you win it. the last final was big and great because we won it. If we had lost in 2003 that would have been the worst memory in my rugby career. I don't want that on Saturday - none of us do."
Jason Robinson on BBC Radio 5live

"If we can keep a tight grip on the game like we did against France then we can win. If at any point we lose concentration and give away penalties or allow the game to open I fear we will be stuffed out of sight so that is what they have to do to win and they must know that."
SJDG43 on 606

1450: "The mental preparation this week will have been just as important as the physical preparation for both sides. It is a mindset - you can feel that within the team and the captain has an important role to feel the mood. I've no doubt captain Phil Vickery will do his job, then it will be down to the other boys to do theirs."
World Cup winner Martin Johnson on BBC Radio 5live

"Haven't washed my England shirt since the tournament started. Since I've worn it a lot this is starting to present a biohazard. I find applying a roll-on deodorant direct to the armpits of the shirt very efficacious."
The Holy Hooker on 606

"Another one off on a stag do, this time to Barcelona! Have hatched a baldrick-esque cunning plan to ply the stag with shed loads of grog tonight, handcuff him passed out to a lamp-post in a borat mankini tomorrow morning, hop on the lunchtime barca-paris easyjet, cheer the boys to glory and then be back in barca by the time JPW wakes up!"
JR, London via text

1442: Breaking News has just arrived on my desk and it's absolute classic work from, wait for it, the Sugababes. "All of the Sugababes wish you luck... Do it for England, do it for the Sugababes." If that doesn't inspire the troops, nothing will. Do it for the Sugababes boys!

"I received a call from Dirs senior last night - 'Ben', he said to me, 'why don't you to introduce Tommy to the dark arts of jibbing?'. Jibbing, he went on to tell me, was what he and his mates used to do in the East End back in the day and basically involved bunking into venues by any means possible without paying. 'It worked for me and the chaps when we went to see Sinatra at the Palladium in 1957'. What Donny doesn't realise is, things have moved on - try bunking in to the World Cup final and you'll get a Taser gun up your backside."
BBC Sport's Ben Dirs in Paris

1434: Now, if England really are to mix things up in Paris (I'm not convinced, might I add), they may need a little reminder how to pass, sidestep and 'flick the switch'. And guess what? It's all here for our web users... beautiful...

"Looks like the media-shy Brian Ashton has had a word with Sir Clive and is starting to play with the media! What a brilliant tactician this Brian fella is!"
illustriousjokerjoel on 606

"I will be watching in Stewarts Bar, Billericay with my two boys, all of us in exactly the same spot as we were four years ago and have been the past two weeks. Their mum is still not happy that her boys will be up and in the pub so late...but hey, they will remember this night for years...BELIEVE!"
Mark, Dan and Tom via text

1419: Right - England are about to surge into the lead in the celebrity well-wishing stakes. None other than Kylie Minogue and Myleene Klass are leading the calls for England to bring the trophy home.

Formula One's bright young superstar Lewis Hamilton is not far behind, while golf stars Justin Rose and Nick Dougherty have vowed to "be watching and wishing". Furthermore, Daniel 'James Bond' Craig has personally phoned the squad in France to send them his best wishes. Which is nice.

"Just chatting to another mate from Romford and there is a suggestion that he might be able to smuggle me into England's post-match celebrations. Not sure that would feel right, let's wait and see what happens."
BBC Sport's Ben Dirs in Paris

"Lucas Radebe?! My milkman said he was quietly confident does that make it 3-3?"
Greeno via text

"Don't worry Ben, we're on our way! There will be a sea of white tomorrow in Paris."
Big John in Oxfordshire via text

1353: Bit of chat around now regarding those Brian Ashton quotes. What are we thinking? Is he attempting to throw a little pre-match curve-ball the Boks' way? Or, heaven forbid, have the England team been suckered into a last-minute tactical change ala the final against Australia in 1991?

If you remember, following David Campese's taunts that England couldn't run the ball, a huge forward effort was abandoned on that day, with a running game preferred. The change failed and the Wallabies won 12-6. Lightning couldn't strike twice could it?
Rugby Union 606

"All round Paris, huge posters advertising the French team in their famous blue jerseys still adorn hundreds of shop windows. Last week before the semi-final, the players' stern expressions appeared to be ones of huge determination. Now, with the third-place play-off against Argentina just a few hours away, they simply look glum."
BBC Sport's Tom Fordyce in Paris

1340: Interesting opening words from England coach Brian Ashton in the England press conference. A lot of the talk this week has surrounded how South Africa might cope against the forwards-orientated tactics that have seen England power their way into the final. Well, Ashton suggests the Boks might have to deal with something a little different this time around...

"All in all it's been a very good, relaxed week's training. There have been one or two changes tactically, which I will keep to myself for you to hopefully see tomorrow, but we're feeling good. Will there be something different from us? Maybe."
England coach Brian Ashton

Captain Phil Vickery, sat alongside Ashton, adds: "The desire and will to perform is there through the entire squad. What I say, or whatever team-talk is made before the game, will count for very little. It's about 22 guys going out there and doing all they can for the shirt - nothing else."

"Just saw a man wearing an England shirt! No, wait a minute, it's a Grenoble away kit. Sorry..."
BBC Sport's Ben Dirs in Paris

"As ardent an England fan as I am, I must point out that your running tally of well wishers is incorrect - Lucas Radebe not high profile enough for you?"
Legend via text

Excellent shout Legend, the Boks are 3-2 up... I'll have a dig around in an attempt to level the score.

1330: As we wait for the England press conference, if you are a web user - why not have a peek at supporters' plans to catch the match across the globe...

"I am tickled pink to hear all the English fans saying our team are "over confident". Did I miss something somewhere along the line where our players (and/or coaches/manager) have come out and said they are going to walk all over England?"
restlessjapie on 606

1326: Oh dear - gawd help us all. England prop Matt Stevens has released his own version of team anthem 'The Gambler' ahead of Saturday's final. The track was originally made famous in 1978 by country singer Kenny Rogers and has been adopted as a team favourite during the World Cup.

"I often bring my guitar on the team bus for a sing-song and this track became a favourite with the boys, who love to join in the chorus. It is also one of the few songs the team can actually sing in key!

"So I have decided to record it with a view to helping raise money for charity."

Not sure how Kenny himself feels about that, but judging by his video message to the England boys recently, I can guess the bearded wonder will be chuffed...

"I think I have a valid excuse for missing the game - I don't think there's anywhere terribly suitable to give birth on the Champs Elysees. We will be there in spirit and cheering England on during my contractions, should the incumbent decide to finally make their appearance (already one day late and it's not even our first!)"
Groovycathers on 606

1313: Kerplunk! England draw level immediately, with Prince Harry, who is expected to be at the match with brother William, said to be "quietly confident" of an England win.

"Prince Harry is right behind England and he can't wait for the final to kick off," a Clarence House spokesman added.

1311: South Africa president Thabo Mbeki is the latest to send a message out to Paris - which puts the Boks 2-1 up in terms of high-profile well-wishers by my calculations.

"I am quite certain that the team will do what our nation expects. I want to convey the message to them that the country is behind them - all South Africans genuinely say 'bring the cup home' - and on Saturday all of us will be watching."

No pressure there, then...

"Haha, not know who Ben Dirs, Tom Fordyce and Mark Orlovac are? You're having a laugh right?"
Englandlad23 on 606

1302: "Right - I realised that if I had continued walking in my attempts to get to the England press conference, I would have got to England's hotel around Tuesday. I am now in a taxi and it's probably the most frightening ride of my life. Someone has cut the driver up and he has gone bananas, like Fernando Alonso on speed. Hope my life insurance is up to date!"
BBC Sport's Mark Orlovac

"Good luck England, you'll need it!"
bluebabe_24 on 606

1252: By the way - it has come to my attention that some of you won't have the first idea who Ben Dirs, Tom Fordyce and Mark Orlovac are. More shame you, of course, but still. So, for all you need to know about that terrible trio, have look through these online profiles...

And while you're at it web users, Tom and Ben have filed their latest video blog for your viewing pleasure -

"Come on England. Let's add to the list of all famous English heroes. Churchill, Her Majesty & Prince Phillip, Shakespeare, Lennox Lewis, James Bond, Timmy Mallett... we will all be watching."
IainKiddie on 606

1241: And for those of you who like a bit of a flutter - it's a mug's game as my old man says, two minutes before popping to the local bookies - these were the odds on the match this morning. The South Africans are firm favourites, SportingBet and BlueSquare offering 4/9 as best price, but if you fancy letting your heart rule your head then 9/4 is generally available on England. Of more interest is the man-of-the-match market, where the talismanic Jonny Wilkinson leads the way at 13/2.

"I've been in Paris for two days now and am concerned about the lack of England shirts! Green shirts everywhere. SOS to Blighty - get here quick & bring your shirts!"
EdV via text

1229: "I was sat in the sixth-form common room at Barnard Castle when we won in 2003. It's bizarre and slightly surreal having watched that to be involved in a World Cup final.

"Guys play their whole careers and never get a chance to play in what is the pinnacle of world rugby. And to do it in my first World Cup. It still hasn't sunk in - that's probably a good thing as I wouldn't be able to get out of bed in fear. I can't wait to run out and see all those England supporters."
England centre Mathew Tait on BBC Radio 5live

"Michael-Lowry: au contraire, it is the epitome of rudeness they haven't postponed the wedding. You can get married any time but we're only in an RWC final every 4 years. Express your feelings loudly."
Simon, Birmingham via text

"In the words of Sir Winston Churchill. "We shall not flag or fail. We shall go on to the end. We shall fight in France... we shall fight with growing confidence and growing strength in the air, we shall defend our island, whatever the cost may be. We shall never surrender." 'Nough said."
oldwingforward on 606

"A mate just phoned to tell me I'm going to tonight's third-place play-off for free. Lovely stuff. I will never point out that he looks like Gollum again."
BBC Sport's Ben Dirs in Paris

1212: Right, who's ready for/needs a refresher course on the laws of the game? Come on, you know you want to. Well, as ever, we are here to help with videos and articles to suit your every need...

"On the way to the England press conference (1330 BST) and the metro is absolutely heaving. I now look like Flat Stanley from the book of the same name. It is a blessing really as my wife is always saying I should lose some weight.

"Tempers are getting frayed as people try and force their way onto already overcrowded trains and I am desperately trying not to giggle. Just looked at the board and the next train is due to arrive sometime before nightfall. Which is nice."
BBC Sport's Mark Orlovac in Paris

"I have a wedding to go to that was decided over a year ago, really can't believe it. Would it be rude nip off down to the nearest pub for a few hours in the middle of the reception? I mean, these days, people get married more than once, but this game is a one-off!"
Michael-Lowry on 606

"Dan, London: Chew up and spit out the 'springbok' cup cake. Call it a metaphor."
Tim, Chelmsford via text

"Just told my new boss I want England to win tomorrow! 'OK' he said, with a broad SA accent. Oops, there goes my promotion and salary rise."
Anon via text

1156: Not to be outdone by Queen Elizabeth II, former South Africa president Nelson Mandela has lent his heartfelt support to the Boks ahead of the final...

"You have made us all very proud to be South Africans. You remind us so powerfully of that proud day in 1995 when we not only won the Rugby World Cup, but more importantly we celebrated ourselves as one nation, uniting behind our victorious team.

"We regret not being able to be with you in person but you can be assured we will be with you in spirit every minute of the match. We know our boys have the ability, strength and determination to be victorious once more. We are a winning nation. We acknowledge our problems and challenges and then proceed to tackle them with determination and inner spirit of optimism. We have overcome much in order to be where we are.

"You, our national team represent that spirit. You have done us exceedingly proud. Play the game hard and honestly and whatever the outcome hold your heads high. We are convinced you will triumph and bring the triumph home. Go Springboks, Go!"

French commuters pack the metro as services gradually resume

1149: "News of the rail strike in Paris; on Thursday, the whole system was banjacksed - which meant, like English schoolchildren at the first sign of snow, most of Paris's workforce sacked it off and stayed at home. Memo to Nicolas Sarkozy - you've got no chance mate.

"Friday morning has been a similar story. However, I'm told the rail companies are hoping to be almost fully operational by 4pm French time. Better news for England fans is that the Eurostar is running as normal."
BBC Sport's Ben Dirs in Paris

"Regarding the comment from "NoControl on 606", I'd like to reassure you as an Ireland supporter that I'll be cheering England on. I've gained far too much satisfaction in being able to claim for the last four years that Ireland have beaten the world champions. You're not going to start getting fussy now over the reasons for supporting England, are you?!"
Brian via text

"There will be nine Morris dancers descending on Paris early on Saturday morning. If spotted, please shout abuse at the 7ft ginger one - me."
PJ, London via text

1142: All right, a touch of pessimism is creeping onto 606 and your texts. This will not do - no matter how grounded in reality it may be. Therefore, let us remind all England fans of that glorious day in Sydney four years ago - the boys did it then, they can do it again right?

"This is what will happen this weekend; England lose to SA and Lewis Hamilton also loses. And to top it off for the year our football team will fail to qualify for Euro2008."
Status1 on 606

1135: "I'm a big rugby fan. The team has done tremendously well and I'm very confident. The team is under pressure as expectations are high back home and everybody expects us to bring the trophy back. To watch it live will be incredible."
Former Leeds and South Africa footballer Lucas Radebe on BBC News 24

"Is there anybody out there from a country other than England who won't be supporting South Africa?"
NoControl on 606

1129: "Lots of South Africans in my hotel and they're all massive. I feel like the British Tommies must have felt when the New World lads turned up to the front - extremely weedy..."
BBC Sport's Ben Dirs in Paris

"I'm a Brit who works for a certain South African bank in the city. They are handing out cup cakes with 'springbok' and a pic of one on the icing. Wondering what to do with it, maybe see how far I can punt it! Suggestions?"
Dan, London via text

1126: More in from Tom 'hardest-working-man-in-Paris-not-attending-the-final' Fordyce as he updates us on his meeting with complete and utter legend Martin Johnson and former Bok fly-half Joel Stransky.

And don't forget to check out the boys' video blogs from on tour - not least so you can amuse yourself at how different they look to how you imagined...

"So is it fair to say we've spent the last four years lulling the rest of the rugby world into a false sense of security and superiority?"
rminshaw on 606

1117: To say we have all bases covered here at BBC Towers is an understatement of epic proportions. To that end, our very own Oliver Brett has been in touch with Buckingham Palace, who convey this message...

"The Queen has sent a message to the England rugby team and the management team conveying her best wishes for the World Cup final on Saturday.

"It will be delivered by the Princess Royal, who is representing the Queen at the game, and she will give it to the team just before the match, in a written message addressed to the head coach. We don't know the wording of the message."

Brings a tear to the eye, doesn't it?

1111: "Just paid a visit to my very friendly newsagent to see what the papers are saying. All the front pages are banging on about this bloke Sarkozy and his missus getting divorced while sports daily L'Equipe is leading on the only game in town... France v Argentina. However, on page 25 there is a nice feature on Mike Catt with a photo of him getting trampled by a certain Jonah Lomu in 1995. He has come a long way since then.

"On a little walkabout in the Montmartre district I witnessed my first sighting of an England fan in a white shirt, not a bad effort at 1030 in the morning the day before the final. The invasion has begun! Unfortunately he disappeared from view before I could go over and tell him "good work sir"."
BBC Sport's Mark Orlovac in Paris

"I'll be watching at home in France, but will probably spend most of the 80 minutes behind the sofa nursing a bottle of (healthy, so they say!) vin rouge."
oldfashionedrespect on 606

"I'm travelling to France this evening. I hope to see lots of flags as we drive down. We will be the templar knights driving towards Amiens."
Ned, Bucks via text

1102: "What do we have to put right (from England's 36-0 group defeat to South Africa)? It didn't just happen. We had a meeting and talked about things and then started doing it game on game - and we've done that."
England forward Martin Corry on BBC News24

"Will you be counting down the full 35 hours Sam? That's one hell of a shift!"
Michael, Lancs via text

"If SA play to their potential, their will only be one winner. Come on Bokke!!!! Kick some pommie butt!!"
Zane via text

"I have a cricket presentation on Sat that starts at....yes, 2000 BST. I am no less than the Sunday first-team skipper - any excuses welcome!"
Mat, Bishops Stortford via text

A wax Wilko poses with Lord Nelson

1044: If you have been under a rock for the past decade or so - or actually have only recently jumped on the rugby bandwagon (no shame in that, by the way) - and are therefore unfamiliar with 'The Jonny' (see below), pop along to Trafalgar Square.

That's because a Madame Tussauds waxwork of the man himself has been placed on an empty plinth in the Square for the day - much to the pride, amusement and befuddlement of passers-by. Jubbly.

"For gxtoms, concerning screening at the O2, because numbers filled so quickly, a second big screen has been arranged just outside the entrance. You can get your wristbands at the O2 or on Oxford St store. Still spaces. Lets show our support!"
Anon via text

"I should've been on a stag weekend in Bratislava, but alas the draw of England in the RWC final is far stronger than a weekend of debauchery with 20 mates (especially as I've got a ticket at reasonable money) - does this make me a bad person????"
capt_gravedigger on 606

1039: "The Lord has blessed me with an amazing talent. You have to give the man upstairs a lot of credit. It has always been there. But if you want to be a step closer to the best in the world you have to carry on working and carry on proving yourself.

"Four years ago I really wanted to become a professional rugby player and I put everything down on the block and hopefully I can use it on the right way on the field."
Bok winger Bryan Habana on BBC Radio 5live

"The streets of Paris are still quiet and I've yet to spot an England fan dressed as a medieval knight, which is a shame. But the good news is that the Eurostar services look like they'll be back on for tomorrow to bring the legion of England fans over - bring it on!"
BBC Sport's Tom Fordyce in Paris

1027: If you thought it was us mere minions that were chewing our fingers bloody ahead of the big match - news has filtered through this morning that none other than The Queen will be among the television audience of millions turning in to watch England's World Cup bid - and she has singled out Jonny Wilkinson as the key to victory.

Her Majesty spoke about the match to the touring New Zealand rugby league team, who were invited to a reception at Buckingham Palace on their arrival in England ahead of Saturday's centenary international between the Northern Union and the "All Golds" at Warrington.

Andrew Chalmers, chairman of the New Zealand Rugby League, said: "We were talking about the big sporting weekend and she said she was looking forward to watching England play and hoping for a victory."

New Zealand centre Clinton Toopi, who was a member of Leeds Rhinos' Super League Grand Final-winning team at Old Trafford last Saturday, said: "We just mentioned how Jonny Wilkinson helped England and she piped up and said about his kicking ability and how well he had played. She said she wanted England to win."

"Right... I have a ticket to watch the match at the 02 arena....but only two of my other mates got one so our group 10 aren't going to get in. Does anyone know of any other big screens in London that we can watch the match on?"
GXToms on 606

"Oh my god, someone's just offered me a ticket at a reasonable price ... I just can't get to Paris. Pros and cons of hitchhiking anyone?"
Un-Bell-ievable on 606

1002: And as you go through your 'Jonny' pose time and again out on the practice field - or, let's be honest, more likely on the dancefloor after one too many shandies in your local boozer - let the words of Ben 'Pepper Spray Shmepper Spray' Dirs ring in your ears as he waxes lyrical about 'the most influential sportsperson in English history'...

As you can imagine, there will be a lot (and I mean a LOT) of Wilko chat flying about today. So, if you are a web user, why not brush up on your goal-kicking skills with the great man himself...

0951: Man-of-the-moment Jonny Wilkinson has rallied the boys ahead of the showpiece, saying: "If our precision, accuracy and approach is not perfect or as close to as possible it's going to be a very tough evening." Even that would only see England "hanging in at the end", he added, "and that is exactly where we will try to be".

"The best result (for me) would be an England win, but getting to the final is more than I'd dare reckon for at the start."
joshcroz on 606

0938: Make no mistake, this match has captured the attention of all and sundry across the UK. Normally a footy-dominated nation, even the likes of Plymouth boss Ian Holloway has had his say in the build-up to the final. The man pulls few punches... "I take my hat off to the rugby players. It's about time some of our footballers stopped poncing around driving their flash cars and got down to business."

"England have had two exceptional games - their last two - but are they enough to outweigh four YEARS of dross?"
sandylagrate on 606

0931: "The players have taken ownership of the game plan and looked after the way things have moved forward. South Africa have had it easy so far - they've played no-one of any stature, and I include us in that because we didn't show up in the group game, and this could be a game too far for them. If they take us at all lightly they are in for a massive, massive shock."
Former England back Austin Healey on BBC News 24

0925: So just how are England going to overcome the mighty Boks? Or, all things considered, is this an order too tall even for the giant frames of Simon Shaw and Ben Kay? Consult our handy guide and draw your own conclusions...

"Hell of a mountain to climb. Stranger things have happened in sport mind. The turn around though since the start of the tournament has been unreal so mega credit for that. Whatever happens I think the players can hold their heads up high. Good luck England, C'mon Lads!!!!!"
NorvernMonkey on 606

"Come on the Bokke, one last push - you can do it!"
SAShaun on 606

0910: Talking of rail strikes... poor old Fordyce has checked in with this update from the hustle and bustle of the city centre: "The whole of Paris is snarled up as the transport strike rolls into its second day. There are enormous queues at bus stops and taxi ranks as far as the eye can see - come on lads, sort this out before the big day tomorrow!"
BBC Sport's Tom Fordyce in Paris

Of course much of the drama for the supporters this weekend, a national rail strike across France aside, has been - or will be - getting hold of final tickets by hook or by crook. Well you're not alone - even the BBC's finest Tommy 'former Ubogu world champion' Fordyce is struggling, check out his latest blog...

...and then let us know your ticket tribulations on 606
Rugby Union 606

World Cup-winning coach Clive Woodward has already been offering his opinion on the final to BBC Radio 5live, claiming: "Jonny is the difference for England, let's make no bones about it... you really couldn't see England winning without him."

0900: Morning people! Well, who would've thought it huh? A mere 35 hours from now England will face off against South Africa in the World Cup final in Paris, aiming to become the first holders to retain the Webb Ellis Trophy in the competition's history. All talk of 'the worst world champions' ever and the like has long been forgotten and England supporters the world over are preparing 'final' parties in anticipation of what might just be a classic.

I want to hear from all you kind people out there about your plans for the weekend, your predictions for the match and where the game might just be won and lost. Were any of you there in 2003? How many of you have been up and close and personal at the England games in this tournament? And who among you will be hiding behind the sofa with a litre bottle of some luminous alcopop come 2000 BST tomorrow night?