France kept their bid for a first Six Nations Grand Slam since 2010 on track after edging Wales 13-9 in a thoroughly absorbing Test in Cardiff on Friday.
Fabien Galthie’s side arrived in the Welsh capital on the back of three convincing wins over Italy (37-10), Ireland (30-24) and Scotland (36-17) and now have a tilt at the Grand Slam when they play England in Paris on 19 March.
Wales did well to close down their playmaking captain Antoine Dupont and posed a threat right to the end of an often-frantic encounter at a Principality Stadium 11,000 supporters short of its full 74,500 capacity.
France led 10-9 at half time, Anthony Jelonch scoring the only try, fullback Melvyn Jaminet kicking the conversion and penalty, while Dan Biggar kicked three penalties for the home side. A sole Jaminet penalty in the second half sealed victory.
“We prepared knowing this was going to be one of the toughest games of the season,” France lock Paul Willemse told the BBC. “We are really happy with the result even though it wasn’t a clean match, but it’s expected against a team like Wales.
“They kept us in our half for a long time. There are lots of things to work on for next week and we’ll do that.”
Wales skipper Biggar said the result was “very, very disappointing”, and added: “Big Test matches hinge on one or two big moments. We didn’t quite nail them and we paid the price. I am so proud of the way the lads stuck to it against the form team in world rugby at the minute.”
© Agence France-Presse
