Irish loss gives Six Nations to England
LONDON: England has won the 2020 Six Nations title after Ireland fell to a 3527 defeat to France in Paris yesterday.
The result meant Eddie Jones’ side edged France on points difference after its 345 win over Italy in Rome.
England’s win had left the situation delicately poised, Ireland needing to win with a bonus point to be sure of claiming the title or by six points to claim it on points difference.
France needed to win by 31 points, with a bonus point.
France scored early and had a chance to build a big lead after Caelan Doris was sent to the sinbin for bringing down Francois Cros, leading to a penalty try.
But Sexton and Ntamack then exchanged penalties as France went in 1714 up at halftime.
The home side pulled clear a couple of times in the second half but never by enough to threaten England’s points advantage.
Jacob Stockdale’s
try
in added time was no consolation for Ireland.
‘‘It feels like we have a brilliant blend of experience and youth to drive us forward; being involved in training over the last few weeks has shown that for us and we are looking forward to what is in front of us as well,’’ England captain Owen Farrell said.
The result means Jones has guided England to a third title in five years and Farrell paid tribute to the Australian.
‘‘He’s been brilliant. The best thing I can say is we love being here in camp, working hard to improve and, hopefully, you can see that when we are out on the field.’’
Scotland beat Wales away for the first time in 18 years yesterday as a narrow 1410 victory at a windswept Parc y Scarlets in Llanelli ensured a strong finish to its Six Nations campaign.
Scotland, which trailed 76 at halftime, finished with three victories and two defeats in this year’s competition. — Guardian News and Media