England’s James Chisholm tonight described winning the Under-20s Six Nations as “absolutely awesome” after they beat France 24-11 at the Amex.
The big No.8 from Haywards Heath took the man-of-the-match honour as Albion’s home staged its first ever rugby match as it prepares to host two World Cup games later this year.
The Red Rose trailed 11-6 at half-time after fly half Rory Jennings’ two penalties were cancelled out by Thomas Ramos replies before France scored an unconverted try through their No.8 Fabien Sanconnie.
England had already ridden their luck by then as the TMO chalked off Thibault Estorge’s try for a knock-on in the build up.
Jennings struck two penalties as England started the second half brightly to take a 12-11 lead.
And the reigning World Champions wrestled the Six Nations title back off France when centre Joe Marchant, who has been borrowed by Worthing Raiders from Harlequins this season, claimed a charge down almost on the tryline and then avoided touch to bag England’s first try in the 70th minute and his sixth of the campaign.
Four minutes later England tore France’s defence apart with swift hands allowing George Perkins to burst through close to the posts before Jennings added the extras.
France camped on England’s line in the dying minutes but could not find a breakthrough.
The final whistle was greeted with a great roar by players and supporters and Chisholm was delighted.
He said: “It’s absolutely awesome to win. We lost the first game (of the Six Nations) against Wales but that probably was a good thing as we have not played to our potential yet.
“So to go and do that to a strong French team is absolutely outstanding.”
He added: “We were frustrated with ourselves after the first half.
“We had not started how we wanted to but we all had the belief that we could pull it all together.”
Chisholm shrugged off his man-of-the-match honour.
He said: “I was an added bonus really. I was just looking to get on the ball and do my bits and bobs.
“France are physical, strong and good ball players, so it is always tricky defending against them.”
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