Fiji give France a run for their money
The Rugby Paper|August 20, 2023
FRANCE put the loss of star fly-half Romain Ntamack behind them as they continued their fine form but were made to work hard for a win over Fiji in Nantes.
BEN JAYCOCK
Fiji give France a run for their money

France, who have now won six of their last eight Tests, are many people’s tip to lift the Webb Ellis Cup but Fabian Galthie’s side weren’t near their best last night, failing to show their usual attacking flair in the absence of injured Ntamack, who is out of the World Cup with a ruptured ACL.

Fiji posed a threat throughout with their physicality and silky backline play but their messy lineout continues to be their Achilles heel.

France made a fast start and their dominance at the breakdown allowed full back Melvyn Jaminet to score three unanswered penalties inside the opening 10 minutes.

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