Just a few hours after Wales had crumpled to their 14th consecutive Test defeat, England ended their own unenviable record with a last-gasp victory over France at Twickenham.

Steve Borthwick's side went into the game against the French with two wins in eight games – both of those against Japan last July and November.

France entered on a high following November wins over Argentina, Japan and New Zealand as well as a 43-0 annihilation of Wales at the Stade de France on 31 January.

And Louis Bielle-Biarrey opened the scoring to give France the lead their play deserved. But by half-time, the sides were level at 7-7.

In the second half, Thomas Ramos kicked two penalties to give France a 13-7 advantage.

But the visitors, who smashed England 53-10 in March 2023 for their biggest win over their rivals in 117 years, could not surge away. Tommy Freeman's try brought England to 13-12 after 58 minutes.

Three minutes later, Bielle-Biarrey set up Damian Penaud for his 37th try for France in 54 games and, more importantly for Fabien Galthié's men, an 18-12 lead.

It went frenetic in the last 10 minutes

Riposte

To the delight of the partisans, Fin Baxter went over the line and fly-half Fin Smith, taking over kicking duties from Marcus Smith, converted the try to give England the lead for the first time at 19-18.

Wales next take on defending champions Ireland on 22 February while Italy host France the next day.

Read more on RFI English

Read also:
Judges to review rape case against French rugby players in Argentina
Alcohol off limits as French rugby tightens discipline measures
Argentina outwit Wales to reach Rugby World Cup semi-final