England seal Six Nations Grand Slam with win over France in front of huge crowd

ENGLAND boss Simon Middleton admitted ‘You could not wish for more than this’ after his Grand Slam send-off.

A record 58,498 crowd for Twickenham’s first stand-alone women’s international saw the Red Roses run in six tries to clinch a fifth Six Nations title in a row.

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But they had to survive a French fightback from 33-0 down at half-time.

Middleton, who is stepping down after eight years in charge, said: “It’s been an exceptional day that I will never forget.

“To produce a game like that on a stage like this is everything that is good about the game.

“You live for moments like lifting the trophy. It’s been incredible.”

England barely touched the ball in the first 15 minutes but when they did, Helena Rowland cut through a gap in the French midfield and set up Abby Dow’s first try.

Skipper Marlie Packer was next over and Alex Matthews scored No 3 after Jessy Tremouliere was sin-binned for an intentional knock-on.

France conceded a penalty try and got a second yellow card when Rose Bernadou tackled Lucy Packer from an offside position on the line.

Zoe Aldcroft got the fifth before the break and Lark Davies bagged what proved to be a crucial sixth on the hour.

Wales will play in the top tier of the new WXV global competition after clinching third place, scoring five tries to beat Italy 36-10.

 l For all the latest TikTok Women’s Six Nations news, information, and details on how to watch the Championship, click here.

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