England got the better of the first half with a lot of the possession and great defence when France had the ball. England led 6-3 at half time by virtue of a drop goal and a penalty from fly half Shelley Rae. However, France scored a try in the 71st minute and England were unable to convert a late penalty.

England coach Danny Wilson commented, "we made a few bad decisions, which cost us the game, but it was a great game and great experience for some of the younger players. This wasn't our strongest team and we can take a lot away from this game."

England are next in international action in next month's Churchill Cup, where they look to retain the title they won last year. However, the world's number one ranked New Zealand team will provide a stern test for England.

Scoring sequence

18 min Rae  drop goal 0-3
41  France penalty  3-3
44  Rae  penalty  3-6

half time score 3-6

71  France  try  8-6

England Women's European Team
15. Sue Day (Captain)
14. Kim Shaylor
13. Vicky Masserella
12. Karen Andrew
11. Amber Penrith
10. Shelley Rae
9. Susie Appleby
1. Rochelle Clark
2. Amy Garnett (Vice Captain)
3. Katy Storie
4. Rachel Vickers
5. Catherine Spencer 
6. Shannon Baker
7. Sam Buckingham
8. Karen Jones
Replacements
16. Ann O'Flynn
17. Hannah Dawson
18. Heather Fisher
19. Maggie Alphonsie
20. Danielle Waterman
21. Shauna Vetch
22. Chris Diver 
 
-ends-

For more information contact Helen Gorman on 07739 456644