France defeat Ireland in Women’s Six Nations to keep Grand Slam hopes alive
France kept their Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam hopes alive by battling past Ireland with a 26-7 victory in a breathless encounter in Clermont.
The hard-fought triumph ensures the hosts remain on a collision course with England for a final-day title decider.
Meanwhile, the visitors’ agonising wait for a first victory on French soil continues after squandering several golden first-half opportunities.
Early confidence unrewarded
The away side had been highly vocal about seeking revenge for their heartbreaking World Cup quarter-final exit last October.
“We owed them one,” stated back-rower Aoife Wafer prior to kick-off.
Centre Stacey Flood shared that belief by suggesting the French camp had reason to be fearful.
“They should be worried, if I was them,” Flood remarked.
TMO frustration for spirited visitors
That early confidence translated perfectly onto the pitch as Scott Bemand’s squad dominated the opening physical exchanges.
However, three separate Irish tries were controversially chalked off by the Television Match Official during a pulsating opening period.
Cliodhna Maloney-MacDonald eventually breached the home defence from a rolling maul to reward that spell of intense dominance.
That narrow lead proved incredibly short-lived as Ambre Mwayembe struck back swiftly for the tournament contenders.
Clinical finishing proves the difference
Following a tense 7-7 deadlock at the interval, the French outfit showcased exactly why they are chasing championship glory.
Fly-half Carla Arbez converted her own brilliant solo effort to give the home side an advantage they would never relinquish.
Late scores from Anais Grando and Lea Champon ultimately put the scoreboard beyond any lingering Irish doubt.
Streak extended to nine matches
This latest triumph extends a relentless French winning streak over their opponents to nine consecutive matches dating back to 2017.
The Irish squad must now regroup during the rest week before hosting Wales in Belfast.
In contrast, the unbeaten French side will travel to Scotland ahead of their highly anticipated finale against the all-conquering Red Roses.
