‘Greatest Welsh side ever’ a massive test

– Eddie Jones (right) said England would have to be at their “absolute best” to defeat the “greatest Welsh side ever” in what looms as a Six Nations title-decider later this month.

England thrashed France 44-8 at Twickenham on Sunday, with Jonny May’s hat-trick in the opening half-hour providing three of their six tries.

Victory meant England had won both their opening two matches following a 32-20 success away to reigning champions Ireland last weekend.

Wales are the only other side with a played two, won two record after a 25-15 victory over Italy in Rome on Saturday.

It was Wales’ 11th successive victory, matching their record winning streak set between 1907 and 1910.

Now all eyes will be on Cardiff for Wales’ match against England when the Championship resumes on February 23.

“We’re playing the greatest Welsh side ever,” said England coach Jones.

“We’re going to have to be at our absolute best. Preparation starts on Wednesday.

“You’re playing against a tough, physical team. They contest hard at the breakdown. You’ve got to earn every point against them,” said Jones.

May dotted down for his opening try in just the second minute, the first of several scores created by kicks behind the French defence.

The Leicester flyer has now scored 22 tries in 42 Tests and Jones said: “Jonny May is one of the hardest working guys in our team. His improvement is all due to his desire to be the best and be part of a team that wants to be the best.”

But a modest May said: “I was lucky today to get on the end of some really good team play.”

When centre Henry Slade ended the first half by scoring England’s fourth try, Jones’ men – who are now two points clear of Wales – had a bonus-point score with 40 minutes still to play.

England were 30-8 up at halftime but Jones said: “The second half I thought our performance was even better – our focus and our discipline to keep France scoreless was outstanding.”

France are in England’s pool in Japan but coach Brunel insisted: “Lots of things can happen in the meantime. The conditions will not be the same.” – AFP