Another grand slam for England, a fourth consecutive Six Nations title, a 23rd win in a row and a considerable statement that they will take some stopping at this year’s World Cup. Whereas they had previously thrashed their opponents, this was a victory founded on their tireless defence and, fittingly for the side who can fully lay claim to the label, professionalism.
They scored three tries, each from rolling mauls with the tighthead prop Sarah Bern going over twice and Abbie Ward grabbing the other and while there were more moments from France – who were also chasing a clean sweep – that quickened the pulse, England produced the kind of performance that demonstrates why they are significantly ahead of the chasing pack at present. They were devastatingly physical, ruthlessly clinical at the set-piece – Zoe Aldcroft underlining why she is the current world player of the year and making 18 tackles – and gave a masterclass in efficiency, if not entertainment.
