It is indicative of this England team that after putting New Zealand to the sword with a dominant display in the World Cup semi-final, that there were no wild celebrations or self-congratulatory pats on the back.
The focus turned immediately to next week, a return to Yokohama and a World Cup final against either Wales or South Africa.
They had just handed New Zealand their first defeat on this stage in 12 years, produced one of the all-time great English performances to run out 19-7 victors in a game that did not feel that close.
Manu Tuilagi got the early try, and George Ford kicked 12 points, but it was up front that this game was won, England simply overwhelming the All Blacks.
That forward effort was typified by Maro Itoje, who turned the ball over, stole a key lineout and starved New Zealand of quick ball throughout.
The second row was typically understated, in the image of his team.
He said: “It was a proper Test match. Fair play to the All Blacks, they were the best team in the world for a reason. We really had to play for 80 minutes. I’m thankful to my team-mates and the coaches. It was a good day at the office for us.
“It was always a battle. New Zealand have had the best lineout in the world for a long time now. A big thank you to my team-mates, we’ve put in a lot of good work this week, and especially (forwards coach) Steve Borthwick.
“If you want to win a game of rugby you have to win the breakdown battle, today was no different. We weren’t perfect but we did a good job.
“We’re just building game-by-game, week-by-week. We’re pushing in the right direction. We haven’t done the job yet, but we’re one step closer.”
England could have won by more, they had two tries ruled out, and two more gilt-edged chances in the first half.
And it was for that reason that Eddie Jones remained measured in his reaction, insisting the team will need to step it up in the final.
He added: “I’m really excited for the boys. We’ve got another week in the comp, pleased about that so we can see how we can get better.
“We played our game and our discipline was outstanding. Our forwards are well-drilled and tactically aware, but we can get better by taking more opportunities.
“The psychological approach to the game is becoming increasingly important, there’s so little difference between the teams, that the ability of trying to understand what gives them energy and to try to take that away from them and with your own team, what gives us energy and what gives us strength, and you have to be disciplined enough to follow that.”
