LONDON: Manu Tuilagi scored a fortunate try as England remained on course for a Six Nations Grand Slam with a 23-13 win over France at Twickenham yesterday.
Owen Farrell kicked 12 points and replacement fly-half Toby Flood landed two late penalties as England inflicted a third straight defeat of the tournament on bottom-of-the-table France -- ‘Les Bleus’ worst start to a Championship since they lost their opening three games in the 1982 Five Nations.
“We were a little bit slow coming out of the blocks today, they scored a brilliant individual try and caused all kinds of problems,” said England captain Chris Robshaw.
“But credit to the guys, we stuck at it and when we got attack going we found space. It’s a great win, it’s an exciting time.”
Much-improved France turned round 10-9 in front after Wesley Fofana’s superb solo score provided the only try of the first half.
The game was still in the balance, with England leading 12-10, when recalled centre Tuilagi scored a try that might have been disallowed for a ruck offence in the build-up.
It was a sign of England’s strength that coach Stuart Lancaster made three changes to a winning side, with the powerful Tuilagi replacing Billy Twelvetrees in midfield and Dylan Hartley taking over from Tom Youngs at hooker.AFP
