WALES EYE HISTORY AS NORTH’S BIG GAMBLE HITS THE JACKPOT
WALES’ winning moment against France on Friday night was far less planned and far luckier — but could be equally as significant as the Ireland victory in Paris last year.
A Johnny Sexton drop goal beat France and set the Irish on the path to the Six Nations title and the Grand Slam.
So for the team that Warren Gatland remarked has now ‘forgotten how to lose,’ George North’s 71st-minute interception for a crucial try felt hugely significant.
With the score at 19-17 to France, Sebastien Vahaamahina attempted a floated pass to Yoann Huget — but North gambled, stole the pass and sprinted to the line.
Dan Biggar converted as Wales won 24-19 to make history and claim a 10th consecutive win.
‘Sometimes you have to take a risk and thankfully it came off,’ said North. ‘It is a bit easier when the ball is floating like that for a while.’
Vahaamahina was distraught. ‘I gave Wales that last try,’ he admitted. ‘I didn’t see George North coming up and I rushed to make the pass. It was difficult to talk about in the changing room .’
Louis Picamoles had the first try for France after seven minutes, Huget the next on 23. When Camille Lopez banged over a penalty then a sumptuous drop goal from 40 metres, the game seemed over.
Tomos Williams’ try after the break gave Wales hope but it was still the tallest of orders, until Huget’s howler. Hadleigh Parkes kicked deep but nothing was on. Sliding for the ball, the French winger fumbled. North pounced and scored.
‘Nine times out of 10 that doesn’t-winner.
‘But the one time you do not chase is the one time someone messes up. You have to keep running everything down.’