Skipper Gaëlle Hermet refused to make excuses for France’s narrow 10-6 defeat against England in the 2021 Women’s Six Nations showpiece.
Les Bleues’ bid to lift the coveted trophy for the first time since they claimed the Grand Slam in 2018 fell short at the final hurdle, as the Red Roses triumphed on home soil for their third successive title.
Having scored 109 points in victories over Wales and Ireland France were frustrated by England’s stern defence for much of the contest, with Poppy Cleall’s converted try on the cusp of half-time giving the hosts a 7-0 lead at the break following a first 40 minutes full of thrills and spills despite the lack of points.
Caroline Drouin notched two penalties after the interval to bridge the gap to one point, but home captain Emily Scarratt kicked over from the tee to seal an eighth successive defeat for France against Simon Middleton’s side.
And after full-time Hermet accepted that shortcomings at both ends of the pitch cost France victory – and indeed the Championship – and highlighted key areas for her team to work on ahead of the sides’ exhibition battle next weekend.
“We just aren’t able to force these games our way, so there is disappointment of course,” said back-rower Hermet, 24.
“We gave them some points and we know you can’t afford to make mistakes against a team like England.
“You can’t concede penalties against them – especially in your own half because they are waiting for that to be able to kick to touch and use their rolling maul.
“I think we need to be more clinical with our chances as well to score points when we have the opportunity. But we will keep working.”
