Six Nations Match report - England vs France

Oldham born George Ford impressed for England despite the loss, as he went 100% from conversions as well as scoring his only penalty kick.  

England got off to a poor start, finding themselves down 16-3 after 35 minutes. However, a crucial try just before half time saw England cut the French lead to just six points at the break.  

The Lions came out the blocks flying in the second 40, scoring two tries in the opening five minutes curtesy of Ollie Lawrance and Marcus Smith. 

The tries both converted, meant England now took the lead and were ahead by eight points - looking comfortable for the win. 

However, les Bleus had their say - scoring two tries of their own. Fullback Thomas Ramos put both conversions between the posts, restoring the French’s six-point lead.

England thought they had won it when Tommy Freeman scored a try on 75 minutes, crucially converted by Ford making it 31-30 to the red and whites.  

But it was not to be, a no arms tackle by the English defence gave France a penalty kick in the last minute. Ramos kept his cool and regained the lead for the third and final time with France winning 33-31.  

Ireland beat Scotland 17-13 at the Aviva Stadium to be crowned Six Nations champions once again.

Therefore, a win for England would not have mattered in the grand scheme of things but would have been a positive end to what had been a decent tournament for them.  

Wales lost 24-21 at the Principality Stadium to Italy passing the wooden spoon to Wales, the first one they have received in 21 years.