Scots have no answer to a top treble from Vernier

A HAT-TRICK from inside centre Gabrielle Vernier kept France well and truly in the three-way race for the 2019 Six Nations crown, as the hosts brushed aside Scotland.

Vernier opened her account for the evening in the ninth minute exploiting a gap after some staunch defence from the Scots.

France’s set piece, particularly the scrum, then allowed them to build momentum and number 8 Romane Menager to set up scrum-half Pauline Bourdon to race through.

But Scotland hit back through Rhona Lloyd after stringing phase-after-phase in the France 22.

Vernier then continued her productive evening by collecting a kick through by Emma Coudert to cross over again to make the score 17-5.

France head coach Annick Hayraud made five changes for the match following the 41-26 defeat to England a fortnight ago, citing his desire to use the whole squad available to him.

Doriane Constanty’s recall at full-back proved to be a smart selection as her try on the verge of half-time sealed the try bonuspoint for the hosts.

After the break, it took Vernier 13 minutes to claim her hat-trick, followed by tries for wings Caroline Boujard and Ian Jason.

Emma Wassell scored a late consolation for the visitors.

Star player

Gabrielle Vernier - France