In a nail-biting encounter at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, England narrowly defeated France 43-42 to secure their fourth consecutive Women's Six Nations Grand Slam. The victory extends the Red Roses' winning streak to 25 games as they prepare for the upcoming Rugby World Cup on home soil.

Match Highlights

• Early Dominance: England started strong with Abby Dow scoring the opening try. Fly-half Carla Arbez quickly responded for France, but England's relentless attack saw them score four more tries through Emma Sing (2), Lark Atkin-Davies, and Claudia MacDonald.

• French Fightback: France capitalized on a dropped ball by Zoe Harrison, with Pauline Bourdon Sansus scoring. Marine Menager added another try before halftime, narrowing the gap to 10 points.

• Second Half Drama: Captain Zoe Aldcroft restored England's lead, but Kelly Arbey's sensational finish kept France in the game. Abby Dow and Morgane Bourgeois traded tries, and Joanna Grisez's late score set up a tense finale.

Key Performances

• Emma Sing: Stepping in for the injured Ellie Kildunne, Sing was instrumental with two crucial tries.

• Claudia MacDonald: Continued her impressive form with another sharp finish, adding to her player-of-the-match performance against Scotland.

Post-Match Analysis

England's victory marks their seventh consecutive Six Nations title and their 34th straight championship win. This triumph is John Mitchell's second Grand Slam since taking over in 2023, solidifying England's dominance in women's rugby.

Looking Ahead

With the Rugby World Cup on the horizon, England's form and resilience will be crucial as they aim to reclaim the title they last won in 2014. France, despite the loss, showed they remain a formidable opponent, setting the stage for an exciting World Cup.

Line-ups

• England: Sing; Dow, Jones, Heard, MacDonald; Harrison, Hunt; Botterman, Atkin-Davies, Muir, Talling, Ward, Aldcroft (capt), Feaunati, Matthews.

• France: Bourgeois; Grisez, M Menager, Vernier, Arbwy; Arbez, Bourdon; Brosseau, Bigot, Khalfaoui, M Feleu (capt), Fall-Raclot, Escudero, Champon, T Feleu.

Referee: Maggie Cogger-Orr (NZ)

TMO: Quinton Immelman (SA)