George North "gutted" by Rugby World Cup exit

Wales winger George North has admitted that he is feeling "gutted" after his side saw their Rugby World Cup dreams ended by South Africa at the quarter-final stage.

Wales led on three separate occasions at Twickenham as an enthralling contest swung both ways, but ultimately the Springboks progressed to the last four courtesy of Fourie du Preez's stylish try five minutes from time.

North acknowledged that international matches often hinge on such fine margins, but believes that his side can be proud of their performance.

"At the moment it's a bit too raw. Everyone's a bit gutted. If you look at the result, that is the narrow margin of international rugby especially when you're through to the quarter-final of a World Cup," North told Sports Mole.

"That's something we'll look back on. The boys dug in and showed the pride we have in the jersey and each other. I haven't looked at [the winning try] yet. It's still a bit raw.

"They're not ex-world champions twice over for nothing. They're outstanding as a team and that is sometimes the bit of brilliance you need to go through to the semis."

South Africa will face New Zealand in the semi-finals next Saturday after the All Blacks ran riot against France in Cardiff.