England player ratings vs France as Steve Borthwick’s men ended their 2024 Six Nations campaign against the French in Lyon
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France clinched a nail-biting victory over England in a pulsating encounter in Lyon, securing second place in the 2024 Six Nations standings as Thomas Ramos delivered a decisive blow with a winning penalty from the halfway line.
Taking the lead with a commanding 16-3 advantage on home turf, the hosts appeared to be in control before England rallied, with Ollie Lawrence notching crucial tries on either side of the interval to tilt the scales in England’s favor.
Despite England’s surge, Marcus Smith extending their lead, France responded fiercely, with Leo Barre and Gael Fickou narrowing the deficit as momentum swung in their favor once more.
In a dramatic turn of events, Tommy Freeman’s late try seemed to secure the win for England, as George Ford’s conversion nudged them ahead. However, Ramos had the final word, clinching victory with a nerveless kick from the halfway line, sealing a thrilling seven-try spectacle in France’s favour.
Scroll down for England player ratings vs France.
The Scorers:
FRANCE: 33
- Tries: Nolann Le Garrec (19′), Leo Barre (55′), Gael Fickou (59′)
- Cons: Thomas Ramos (20′, 56′, 61′)
- Pens: Thomas Ramos (17′, 31′, 35′,78′)
ENGLAND: 31
- Tries: Ollie Lawrence (40′, 41′), Marcus Smith(45′), Tommy Freeman(74′)
- Cons: George Ford (40′, 42′, 47′, 75′
- Pens: George Ford (11′)
RUCK’s Player Of The Match:
England Player Stats:
Carries: Ben Earl – 11
Metres: Tommy Freeman – 72
Defenders beaten: Ben Earl – 4
Tackles: Ben Earl – 19
Tackles missed: Sam Underhill – 5
Turnovers won: Maro Itoje – 1
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England player ratings vs France:
15. George Furbank – 5
Unfortunate to depart as early as he did, as he injured his calf muscle and departed after seven minutes. (Off for Marcus Smith, 7).
14. Tommy Freeman – 7
Too high off the line with the early blitz defence, as Gael Fickou sends the ball through his legs to Freeman’s surprise. Brilliant early runs, as he searches up to the French gain-line. Almost handed Alex Mitchell and assist, but his 48th minute offload didn’t go to hands. Thought that he was away with a break at 69 minutes, but the assistant referee called the play back for a deliberate knock on. Great finish in the corner, as he silenced Lyon with his 74th minute try.
13. Henry Slade – 6.5
Strong searching run at eight minutes, as he broke the gain-line and asked questions of Cyril Baille. Sent a silky pass to Ollie Lawrence, as England crossed over just before the half-time break, a strong assist on the 40th minute. Withdrawn for the returning Manu Tuilagi, as England fought power with power. (Off 60- Tuilagi)
12. Ollie Lawrence – 8
Good tackling from the off as France look to hit up the centre channels. Thumping collision with Damian Penaud, as the two collide after five minutes. Ran a brilliant line to score on the stroke of half-time, and breathe life into England’s game. Started the second half on fire, as he powered over from close range to score once again.
11. Elliot Daly – 6.5
Back in to the starting line-up as Manny Feyi-Waboso is out with a concussion. Claimed the high balls confidently, but swamped when trying to stretch his legs. Returned the favour with good kick chase and well timed tackles on the receivers. Vocal on the touchlines, as the assistant referee handed a line-out to France.
10. George Ford – 7.5
Not afraid to calm things down, and called for the first mark of the match with the play at an immense rate. Slotted the opening points of the match, and did well to bring down a full-pace Charles Ollivon, as he grounded the flanker at 30 minutes. Demanded more from his team, as France began to take control after the hour mark. Quick hands to Smith, to set up Freeman’s late try, before nailing the conversion from the corner.