A late Maro Itoje try clinched England’s 23-20 victory over France at Twickenham on Saturday.
Eddie Jones will be delighted to have won this hard-fought encounter but also bewildered as to why his side couldn’t have shown this grit and skill earlier in the tournament.
England’s imperfect defence of the Six Nations title sees them currently fourth, after losing to Wales and Scotland, but this encouraging display did show signs of the form that saw them reach the 2019 World Cup final.
Meanwhile their opponents, despite this loss, can still win the tournament if they win their remaining games against Wales and Scotland.
France have been excellent in their two wins over Italy and Ireland and began the game in the same vein as their superstar Antoine Dupont scored within the first two minutes after he gathered Teddy Thomas’ kick.
However, the home side responded quickly as wing Anthony Watson, on his 50th cap, scored his 22nd international try on the 10-minute mark. Fabien Galthie’s team go into half-time 13-17 up.
The second half was dominated by the boots of captain Owen Farrell and France’s Matthieu Jalibert who traded blows.
With the game perfectly poised, Itoje’s 77th-minute try after a TMO check, earnt his side a much-needed win.
England face Ireland in a dead rubber next but the performances from full-back Max Malins and hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie, will test Jones’ loyalty to Elliot Daly and Jamie George.
Wales’ Grand Slam hopes remain intact
Elsewhere, Wales dominated Italy in a seven-try win over Italy in Rome as they chase the Grand Slam.
Wayne Pivac’s side have won every game thus far, already claiming the Triple Crown, and will travel to France next knowing that a victory will secure their second clean sweep in just three years.
Their tries came from hooker Ken Owens (2), Josh Adams, Taulupe Faletau, George North, Callum Sheedy and Louis Rees-Zammit.
Italy’s sole try, on another dismal outing for the ‘Azzurri’, came courtesy of Monty Ioane.
With France versus Scotland postponed, due to a Covid-19 outbreak in the French camp, Wales won’t be wanting to wait for this fixture and will be confident that they can win this year’s tournament at the Stade de France.
Pivac’s team had a woeful 2020, winning just three out of 10 games, and went into this year’s Six Nations expected to fail. However, excellent performances in every match have deservedly put them top of the table.
Ireland edge past Scotland at Murrayfield
On Sunday, a Johnny Sexton penalty late on ensured Ireland won 27-24 over Scotland at Murrayfield.
Both sides opening tries were slightly fortuitus, with Robbie Henshaw going over for Ireland and Finn Russell replying for Scotland.
In the second half, Tadgh Beirne forced his way to score and with the help of Sexton’s boot it meant Andy Farrell’s side led 24-10.
Huw Jones quickly responded and Hamish Watson then levelled the scores in the final 10 minutes.
In a fiercely fought last few minutes, Sexton remained calm and slotted the winning points just four minutes from time.
This meant Scotland hadn’t won a Six Nations game since their opening encounter against England while Ireland climb to second in the table.
