It was the first defeat for the French this season after they drew 17-17 at Stade de France against Ireland the previous weekend. It was England’s third away win and moved them into second place in the table behind Wales.
England, the reigning RBS 6 Nations champions, entertain Ireland on Saturday in a game that will kick-off after Wales face France in a bid to secure a third Grand Slam in eight seasons.
Wales currently lead the table by two points from England (6) and Ireland (5) and France (5). They also hold a 38 points difference advantage over the English, which could be critical in determining who wins the title should France come to Cardiff and win and England overcome the Irish on St Patrick’s Day.
Tournament rules say that if two teams are level on match points then points difference will determine which team takes top spot. All this will, of course, be irrelevant if Wales beat France on Saturday or draw the game.
French outside half legend Thomas Castaignede suggested that Wales will start as firm favourites and Jonathan Davies was on the same page in their post-match analysis from Paris.
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