STUART LANCASTER has vowed the crushing end to England’s tour of New Zealand will motivate his players to ensure they never allow it to happen again.

A series that had been competitive across the first two Tests ended in a 36-13 mauling at the Waikato Stadium that gave the All Blacks a 3-0 whitewash and a record-equalling 17th successive victory.

The error-ridden first half was possibly the worst of Lancaster’s reign and England must wait four months before they can make amends with New Zealand’s visit to Twickenham launching their autumn schedule.

“We were beaten by a better team and this series has been challenging,” Lancaster said.

“If anything, this defeat should fire a steely determination never to let it happen again.

“I’d be very surprised if there are any players who believe the loss has dented their self-belief to a point where they don’t believe they can achieve.

“I’ll ensure the players use it as strong motivation rather than allowing to it develop into a negative mindset.”

Once the anguish over the climax to the series subsides, Lancaster will be able to draw pride from England’s ability to challenge the All Blacks in the harshest of rugby environments.

Yet he will have returned home none the wiser over who should fill certain positions, the midfield and wings being the areas of most pressing concern.

Among those to impress were hooker Rob Webber, lock Geoff Parling, number eight Ben Morgan and wing Marland Yarde.

Heading in the opposite direction are wings Jonny May and Chris Ashton and centre Billy Twelvetrees.

“We have definitely learnt a lot about the players and we have made some good progress throughout the course of the season,” Lancaster said.

“What’s happened here does not deviate from the overall objective of getting team ready for 2015.

“I wouldn’t say some players have had their last chance, but certainly we’ve learnt who can deliver at this level. Going through the backs, there’s more decisions still to be made, no doubt about it.’’