England coach Steve McNamara has said that it would be "cruel" to blame Kevin Sinfield for today's last-gasp defeat to New Zealand.

The hosts came within seconds of reaching the final of the Rugby League World Cup, only to be denied when Shaun Johnson beat the Leeds Rhino star to score a try and kick a conversion to seal the Kiwi's progress.

"I don't think [Sinfield] has got anything to blame himself for, he worked his socks off," PA quotes him as saying. "It would be very cruel to blame anyone for anything after that result.

"You have to move on, there are worse things in life. We are all feeling as though we are as low as we can be, but in reality it's not.

"Worse things happen and we should be privileged we've been part of such a brilliant game."

McNamara has now come to the end of his contract, but remains hopeful that he has done enough to earn an extension.

"I'm not sure at this stage, it's too early," the 42-year-old added. "I have been focused on giving us the best opportunity [at the World Cup].

"It's been a pleasure putting this programme together, I have a brilliant staff and great players and it's something I am proud of and not something I want to give up easily."

New Zealand will take on Australia in the final at Old Trafford next weekend.