By Frankie Gleed
With nothing but pride to play for, England took on highflying France in what Eddie Jones called “a game for the ages”.
Despite a very disappointing Six Nations campaign so far, England managed to come back against France to win 23-20. France, who have impressed this year after winning their two opening games, started the game strong with a try inside the first two minutes, with Dupont picking up a loose ball to touch down for a try which was then converted by Jalibert.
After conceding, England got going and scored in the 11th minute after Slade charged through the tackle line before Ford passed a wide ball out to Watson for a walk-in, with Farrell converting to even the score. England then continued to score with two Farrell penalty kicks to make it 13-7.
France had a strong period of possession around the 30th-minute scoring a penalty in the 30th to make it 13-10. Just 33 minutes later France scored a try after some very impressive play from a lineout. Jalibert with a lofted pass out wide to Penaud for an easy try. Jalibert then converted to make it 13-17, which it remained until half-time.
With England putting pressure on France after the restart, Itoje gave away a penalty to France after not rolling away with Jalibert extending his team’s lead to 13-20 in the 50th minute. Just 4 minutes later Ewls wins a penalty for England after being challenged in the air from a lineout. Farrell scores to make it 16-20.
It was Itoje in the 76th minute who managed to push through a very resilient French team. After a review on the TMO, the points were secured and Farrell, once again, converted the kick. England held out to win the game 23-20 stopping France from going for a miraculous Grand Slam if they went on to beat Wales, who can still achieve the feat.