By Nicki Jupp

England U21s made history last month when they beat France in front of a Brive crowd of 8,000 to win the Grand Slam for the first time. The team, led by Leeds Tykes Clive Stuart-Smith, rounded off the tournament by overcoming a talented French side 25-18 in an encounter that went right to the wire.

A delighted Pete Drewett, England U21 Manager, said, “The last three games were incredibly tough challenges but have made it a very special year for us. These young players have shown they can think correctly under pressure and this really has been a brilliant day for everyone involved in U21s rugby.”

After going behind to an early French penalty, England and Bath hooker Rob Hawkins responded with a try, which Gloucester’s Brad Davies converted. A try from NEC Harlequins centre Chris Bell, again converted by Davies, put England 3-14 ahead, before a determined French side touched down just before half time to take the score to 8-14.

After the break came an early French penalty. England responded with a try, scored by Wasps flanker Tom Rees. A penalty from replacement fly half Ross Laidlaw put England ahead by 11 points, before a renewed French effort saw a converted try take them to within four points of England with minutes to go.

Despite immense pressure, the English defence held firm and Laidlaw kicked another penalty in the dying minutes to secure the Six Nations Championship and the Grand Slam.

The team will be looking forward to the IRB U21 World Cup in Scotland in June. Said Pete Drewett, “What this gives us is a solid foundation to build on for the World Championships. There’s still a lot to do before June, but winning the Grand Slam helps us on our way. What’s clear to me though is that these players have got to this point thanks to their regional academy managers and club directors of rugby. We are very aware of this and very grateful for the part they played.”