Young Wallabies five eighth Berrick Barnes has vowed to capitalise on his dramatic World Cup "ride" by taking his game to the next level in 2008.

Barnes is already thinking about the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand after rediscovering his enjoyment for the game through his maiden Test tour.

The 21-year-old five-eighth ended Australia's disappointing 2007 Cup campaign as a major success story but took little solace in his dramatic rise after the 12-10 quarter-final loss to England.

Although more than solid in defence and responsible for laying on the only try of the match to Lote Tuqiri, he was unhappy with his game in only his fourth Test.

"The one thing I needed to do was take a bit of control at the end there and guide us around a bit better," Barnes said.

"I didn't think it would end yesterday that's for sure but the bubble's burst.

"I was more disappointed for the likes of Bernie (Larkham) and Greegs (George Gregan) and Latho (Chris Latham) who were all playing their last World Cup.

"We were confident in our game plan but just didn't execute."

The World Cup whetted Barnes appetite for the game again after his enthusiam had been dented during Queensland's wooden spoon campaign in the Super 14 earlier this year when he was shuffled between five eighth and centre.

"I suppose the whole time I've felt like I've been on a ride," said Barnes.

"I'd definitely love to experience one of these again but if that happens remains to be seen.

"It's a nice carrot and to be a little more experienced would be invaluable.

Barnes looms as the favourite to nail down Larkham's No.10 Test spot next year but will face competition from the likes of Kurtley Beale, Sam Norton-Knight and Quade Cooper and he admitted he still had plenty to learn.

"I've still got a fair bit to consolidate on," he said. "I don't want to put all this hard work down the toilet."

Barnes' efforts as a late replacement for Larkham in the 32-20 pool win over Wales showed he had the game and mental toughness to succeed at international level.

"I definitely feel like I'm a part of the team now," he said.

"When I go back I'll try and take as much experience as I can and implement it with the Reds going forward.

"That's the next challenge. Wooden-spooners trying to get up the ladder, I tell you mate.

"But one thing I've done this trip is starting to enjoy playing footy again and I wasn't so much enjoying it this year."

AAP