PARIS (Reuters) - After a frustrating start to the Six Nations, France claimed a rare victory over England that boosted the morale of Jacques Brunel's men who now believe they are a force to be reckoned with again. Les Bleus opened this year's campaign with two defeats, by Ireland and Scotland, that stretched their winless streak to eight games. A win against perennial Six Nations whipping boys Italy snapped that losing run but it was Saturday’s 22-16 victory over arch rivals England that gave new coach Brunel big hopes for the future. But it was France’s collective performance that impressed at the Stade de France as England struggled to pierce through their brick wall defence. France, who had lost nine of their previous 11 Six Nations meetings against England, were well aware of this.

Source: The Star March 11, 2018 12:22 UTC