France XV Beat England XV 35-19

France XV defeated England XV 35-19 in their non-cap international in Vannes, with Benhard Janse van Rensburg missing a clear try-scoring chance on his first appearance in England colours.

France XV Beat England XV 35-19

England made a fast start when Cadan Murley crossed early, but France quickly settled into the contest and exposed space in the visiting defence. Nicolas Depoortere scored after slick French handling, before Gregoire Arfeuil added another try as the hosts began to take control.

England struggled for rhythm for much of the first half, with handling errors and missed attacking opportunities allowing France to stay on top. However, they struck before the interval when Noah Caluori entered the line from scrum ball and offloaded for Marcus Smith to finish, keeping England within reach at half-time.

Benhard Janse Van Rensburg Misses Try Chance

France took command after the break. Nolann Le Garrec finished a sweeping long-range attack before Antoine Hastoy crossed to stretch the lead to 28-12.

Janse van Rensburg came on in the 52nd minute during a wave of substitutions and was soon handed a golden chance under the posts. The Bristol centre looked set to score, but the ball slipped from his hands with the line open. The miss proved to be England’s best chance to reduce the deficit at a crucial stage.

England XV Preparations Continue

England had moments of promise, with Caluori showing flashes on the wing, although one possible try was ruled out for an earlier knock-on. Tom Curry and George Martin both played 51 minutes as part of their build-up before England’s Nations Championship opener against South Africa on July 4.

France sealed the result in the 80th minute through Fabien Brau-Boirie, extending the lead to 35-12. England had the final say in overtime when Max Ojomoh touched down, but the late score only reduced the margin as France completed a deserved 35-19 victory.