France beat Japan 42-23 in first rugby union Test
Six Nations champions France stretched away in the second half to beat a spirited Japan side 42-23 on Saturday in steamy conditions in the first Test at Toyota Stadium.
Melvyn Jaminet Sport News
France turn on strong second half showing to overpower Japan
AICHI, Japan : Winger Damian Penaud scored two tries as France put together a strong second-half performance for a commanding 42-23 victory over Japan in the first test at the Toyota Stadium in Aichi on Saturday.
Ollivon returns to lead France for Japan clash
Charles Ollivon will captain France against Japan as he continues his return to the international stage, while uncapped lock Thomas Jolmes and flanker Yoan Tanga will make their debuts at the Toyota Stadium on Saturday.
Six Nations awards 2022: France dominate top honours, Italy’s brilliance remembered and England disappoint
The French team was stacked full of ridiculous talent this tournament, but no player was better than Alldritt. The number eight carried the French attack on his back all tournament with a whopping 65 touches of the ball (for reference the next highest carrier was Stuart Hogg with 56). His reliability as a thumping carrier provided a brilliant platform from which the French backs could work from, allowing Antoine Dupont the time and space to execute. Along with fellow French back-rowers Francois Cros and Anthony Jelonch, Alldritt was also one of the best tacklers in the tournament whilst offering six turnovers won as well – tied for first overall.
Six Nations verdict: France flourish and Italy show they belong
It was the collective sense of purpose and unity that was most striking as France collected their grand chelem and rose to second in the world rankings. In the past they would suffer a setback and often allow it to distract them. Now they have everything a champion rugby team need: talent, power and, crucially, composure. Only in Wales, where the fear of a Friday night slip-up briefly diverted them down a tactical cul‑de‑sac, did their most influential players show any signs of confusion. The clarity of their gameplan was a lesson to other teams and previously unsung players such as Gabin Villière, Melvyn Jaminet and Jonathan Danty have stepped up to complement the bigger names around them. Shaun Edwards’s defensive urgings have also made a massive difference and the French public are swooning. By the time the World Cup kicks off in Paris in 2023, they may be firm favourites.
Rugby: France beat England to claim long-awaited Six Nations Grand Slam
Fabien Galthie's side showed their brilliance in an exhilarating opening half, although some poor passing and handling kept England in the game until the hour.
France captain Dupont eager to enjoy Grand Slam as World Cup looms
SAINT-DENIS: France captain Antoine Dupont insisted that he wanted to "make the most" of a long-awaited Grand Slam success and not worry about the World Cup after a 25-13 win at home to England saw Les Bleus to a first Six Nations title in 12 years.
Superb France beat England to claim long-awaited Six Nations Grand Slam
PARIS : France claimed their first Grand Slam and championship title in the Six Nations since 2010 as they beat England 25-13 on Saturday after passing a test of nerves in a contest they largely dominated at a packed Stade de France.