France crush Scotland to set up Women’s Six Nations decider with England
France ran in 11 tries to secure a dominant 69-28 victory over Scotland, setting up a thrilling Women’s Six Nations title decider against England next weekend.
The visitors blitzed their hosts right from the kick-off, with captain Manae Feleu crossing the whitewash after barely 50 seconds following an early handling error.
Despite a spirited first-half response from an injury-ravaged home side, the sheer power and pace of the French outfit ultimately proved overwhelming.
Lea Champon and Siobhan Soqeta both bagged impressive braces before the break, helping establish an imposing 31-14 half-time advantage.
Injury-hit hosts show fleeting resistance
Rachel Philipps provided a rare bright spark for the home fans, seizing her first Test start by slicing through the defensive line for two excellent first-half scores.
Stepping up in the absence of injured standout Emma Orr, the young centre demonstrated remarkable composure against world-class opposition.
However, any momentum gained by Philipps’ double was swiftly extinguished right on the stroke of half-time when Champon broke free to deliver a crucial psychological blow.
The hosts were also punished during a brief period where they enjoyed a numerical advantage, conceding a clever chip-and-gather try to Carla Arbez while Feleu was in the sin-bin.
Relentless surge secures bonus-point triumph
Normal service resumed immediately after the restart as full-back Pauline Barrat finished off a slick passing move in the corner.
As fatigue began to set into the inexperienced Scottish ranks, gaps widened and the floodgates subsequently opened.
Alexandra Chambon, Lea Murie, Annaelle Deshayes, and Ambre Mwayembe all added their names to the scoresheet as the relentless onslaught continued unabated.
Emily Coubrough and Aicha Sutcliffe did manage to salvage some pride for the tiring hosts late on, ensuring they walked away with a four-try bonus point in defeat.
Attention turns to Bordeaux showdown
This comprehensive triumph sets the stage for a monumental final-day clash, as the unbeaten French prepare to host reigning champions England in Bordeaux.
The formidable contenders will need to maintain this devastating attacking form if they are to dethrone the Red Roses and claim the coveted championship crown.
Meanwhile, a battered Scottish squad must quickly regroup before travelling to Dublin to face Ireland in their closing fixture.