‘IF THE REF SAYS THE GRASS IS PINK, THEN THE GRASS IS PINK’

SAM UNDERHILL would have had every right to be fuming over the cruel call that denied England a win.

Instead the flanker’s response was as honourable as his performance against the All Blacks was exceptional.

He shrugged and said: “If the referee says the grass is pink then the grass is pink.”

His try (above), which would have put England ahead, was chalked off after a video review for offside against Courtney Lawes, a decision which was marginal.

But there was not one whinge from England.

“It’s difficult to swallow but you have to and you have to respect the referee,” said coach Eddie Jones. “I think that’s enormously important.

“I was really proud of our players that they didn’t carry on, on the field. They just got on with it and tried to win the game again. It’s a real tribute to their character and how they respect the values of the game.”