England men defeated by France in tournament opener

England trailed 17-0 at the break, France scoring tries via Vincent Rattez and Charles Ollivon, while Romain Ntamack contributed seven points from the boot.

A second-half score from Ollivon stretched their lead and despite two converted tries for Jonny May, England were defeated 24-17 but salvaged a late losing bonus-point through Owen Farrell’s penalty.

French flair

France had the opening try of the game, Rattez, who was a late replacement for Damian Penaud, wriggled through on the left wing after just five minutes and Ntamack converted for 7-0.

Ntamack slotted a penalty on 15 minutes to increase France’s lead and Ollivon cantered over after a box kick caused havoc in the England defence.

England also lost centre Manu Tuilagi midway through a disappointing 40 minutes, the first time since 1988 they had failed to score in a first half of a Five or Six Nations fixture.

Second-half fightback

France had a third try 15 minutes into the second half, scrum half Antoine Dupont sniping down England’s blindside before releasing Ollivon to slide over for a second score.

Moments later England had a first try, May gathered first to his kick to dot down for his 28th international try which Farrell converted, sparking Eddie Jones' side into life.

May then produced another piece of magic, collecting the ball just inside France’s half he cut inside and seared through their defence to dive over.

England pushed for a third and George Kruis was held up with four minutes remaining in what would have set up a thrilling finish and despite Farrell’s late penalty, France held firm.