Five Things We Learned From France v Wales
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Tomos Williams Comes of Age
The Cardiff Blues scrum-half marked his Six Nations debut in style by scoring Wales' first try of a heroic comeback in Paris. In difficult conditions, Williams passed accurately and was a constant threat around the fringes with his deft footwork. His kicking game has improved massively since he entered the national set up and stamped his authority on the No. 9 shirt.
France Struggle To Close Out Games
After a quite remarkable defeat to South Africa in November when they led as the clock went into the red, France managed to suffer an even more devastating defeat to Wales, as they led 16-0 at the break. In the second half the home side lacked control and ultimately threw the game away with a series of missed kicks, poor discipline and game-changing errors.
Dupont Needs To Be Involved
The Toulouse scrum half has been in sensational form this season which resulted in his nomination for European Player of the Year but his exclusion from the match day squad was a baffling decision. Brunel chose Clermont's Morgan Parra to start his first Six Nations game in four years, with Serin off the bench, who failed to offer a lot when called upon to close out the game. Dupont has been excellent for Les Bleus when selected and was even printed on the cover of the match day programme.
Louis Picamoles To Light Up The Six Nations
The France international was in terrific form tonight and led the French challenge in the first half as he opened the try scoring. He was a willing ball carrier for his side and looked unplayable at times in attack and defence. He carried on 13 occasions for a gain of 46 metres, beat three defenders, made a clean break and completed 9 tackles.
George North Can Lead Wales To A Championship
On the occasion of his 80th appearance for his country, North was on the end of two massive tries to help Wales to victory. His first try was a gift from the French but his work rate and never say die attitude was the difference in the end. The winning score was the North we have come to know, pace and power in abundance as he raced away for the game winner and you get the sense his try scoring exploits are not over yet.