FOR most of England, Saturday's World Cup victory was a dream come true.

But for one young Englishman it has inspired a dream - as Mathew Tait hopes to pull on the famous white jersey and defend the title in four years time.

The 17-year-old hopes to be part of the next generation of England rugby stars to defend the championship in the 2007 World Cup - and with the sport's biggest teams already squabbling over his signature, the omens are good.

Mathew, who watched the game with team-mates at Barnard Castle School, said: "The final was nerve-wracking and exciting to watch. I was worried they would throw it away, but they showed the character they have shown throughout the tournament to win.

"It inspires young players to want to be there to defend the trophy next time round."

The teenager, from Wolsingham, has been tipped for greatness in the game he has enjoyed since he was seven.

Having been approached by four of the country's Premiership clubs, Leeds, Newcastle, Gloucester and Wasps - whose scouts have seen him represent Barnard Castle School many times, including in the final of the Daily Mail Cup at Twickenham - he is well on his way to a professional career in the sport.

Mathew aims to follow the success he has enjoyed with the national side at junior level by earning a place in the senior England squad.

Last year, he was named England under-16s player of the year and has been selected to join the Junior National Academy at Bath University.

Mathew, who plays at centre, admits that after watching his senior equivalent Will Greenwood and one of his favourite players, Newcastle Falcons' Jonny Wilkinson, lifting the Webb Ellis Cup in Sydney, his burning ambition was more fired up than ever.

He said: "It was brilliant to watch - victory does fire everyone up, especially if you dream of doing the same yourself one day."