England’s women sink France to secure another Six Nations grand slam

Another grand slam for England, a fourth consecutive Six Nations title, a 23rd win in a row and a considerable statement that they will take some stopping at this year’s World Cup. Whereas they had previously thrashed their opponents, this was a victory founded on their tireless defence and, fittingly for the side who can fully lay claim to the label, professionalism.

They scored three tries each from rolling mauls with the tighthead prop Sarah Bern going over twice and Abbie Ward grabbing the other and while there were more moments from France – who were also chasing a clean sweep – that quickened the pulse, England demonstrated the kind of performance that demonstrates why they are significantly ahead of the chasing pack at present.

They had spoken in the buildup about how they wanted a genuine challenge and the boos that rang out Stade Jean Bauger as they completed their warm-up served as warning as to what was to come. Indeed, it was a jittery start by England, a relentless opening from France and for the first time in the competition, the three-times defending champions were behind.

After just three minutes the France No 8 Romane Ménager burst through the England defence and under the posts after the hosts were afforded a lineout deep in their opponents’ territory after a knock-on from Zoe Harrison behind her own line. England’s stage fright continued thereafter with Lydia Thompson fumbling a wayward pass from Helena Rowland but it was the full-back’s expertly executed 50:22 which gave her side their first foray into the France 22. It was England’s first genuine opportunity and one they took, Bern finishing off her first try at the back of a rolling maul. By this stage Alex Matthews, winning her 50th cap, had