WXV: France women topple the world number three

France women beat Canada 21-5 at the Stade Marcel-Deflandre in round three of the WXV Global Series. The world cup runners-up scored only once, from a maul.

The opponent was no makeweight. A week earlier Canada had ended England’s run of thirty-nine consecutive wins by snatching a 26-26 draw at Twickenham. France, for their part, arrived after a defeat by New Zealand and a 29-26 win over Australia.

Boulard breaks the deadlock

France spent the opening quarter in the Canadian half without scoring, until the 23rd minute and a try from Émilie Boulard at the end of a sustained attack (7-0). Reduced to fourteen by a yellow card on the half-hour, Canada still replied from their one real opportunity, a maul finished in the 35th minute (7-5). France led by two at the break after mishandling two or three chances near the line.

Canada’s lineout brought nothing back

The second half looked different: France carried less and defended longer, but the Canadian set piece collapsed. Between missed throws and balls stolen by Mouna Touré, the runners-up’s lineout produced nothing.

Boulard scored her second try in the 50th minute (14-5), then saved one from Pelletier three minutes later, hauling back the Canadian scrum-half after she had beaten the defence.

Alexandra Chambon settles it in the 79th

The final try came from an Alexandra Chambon run through the Canadian defence, in the 79th minute (21-5). Marie Ibanez, picked on the wing for her first cap, held her channel and showed her pace.

Three Black Ferns Tests in October

The win closes the first leg of the WXV Global Series with two victories and one defeat. France next face New Zealand three times in October, a Black Ferns side beaten 26-19 by England on the same Saturday.