After a storming match opener from the A team, who beat their French opponents 14-32, England were unlucky to lose a Grand Slam by 13-12 in front of 7,000 French supporters in Bourg-en-Bresse last month.

England made a strong start with a try from ‘Worcester Express’ Nicky Crawford after 12 minutes. Richmond’s Nicki Jupp crossed the line for a try converted by Shelley Rae nine minutes later and at the break it was 3-12.

The second half saw England constantly penalised and a try, at first allowed by the Italian referee, was then disallowed, after he conferred with his French touch judge. This turned the tide as the French scored a converted try before securing a last minute penalty.

Head Coach Geoff Richards said, “The whole team is bitterly disappointed. We played exceptionally well in the first half and dominated the French. Nicky Crawford and Nicki Jupp scored two brilliant tries and really put the French team on the back foot. However, the second half saw many poor English decisions and we did not play our game. The French team lifted their work rate and the crowd got behind them.”

The A team match opener was watched by a crowd of at least 2,000, who were treated to a display of strong running rugby from Richmond’s Chris Diver, who secured a hat trick and a fine exhibition of kicking from Katy McLean, with three conversions and two penalties. There was never any doubt of the result, with England winning 9-20 at the break and only improving in the second half, when Shauna Vetch of Wasps scored a try.

Said A team coach Danny Wilson, “Overall it was a good performance and excellent experience for a young side seeking Euros selection and a chance to play in the Churchill Cup.”