still mistreated, the XV of France drew on its mental steel to leave with a lighter spirit

The Blues went for a victory in the last seconds against England on Saturday evening in Lyon.

When the final whistle blew, the scenes of joy and relief meant a lot. Liberated, the Blues celebrated with emotion their narrow victory against England (33-31), Saturday March 16, in Lyon, for the last day of the Tournament. On the lawn of Groupama Stadium, the XV of France sought this ultimate success also thanks to its strength of character.

Led by the XV de la Rose after a big slump at the start of the second half, then again less than five minutes from the siren still with holes left in their backs, Fabien Galthié’s men systematically managed to come back. “The group must be congratulated for all the energy and commitment”appreciated Captain Grégory Alldritt at a press conference.

“A spirit, a collective, a strength of character”

A feat that the Blues also achieved thanks to a mentality of steel. “State of mind is the word”made a point of greeting the coach, before continuing: “You need a spirit, a collective, a strength of character to be super solid. We had in mind the start of the competition, with the difficult scenarios we had, but tonight, it wasn’t like that .” Even after the blow to the head following the two tries conceded in quick succession after returning from the locker room, his men remained focused. “I think the team had no doubts”assured a Louis-Bielle Biarrey straight in his boots in the mixed zone.

Comforted by their good first period (or first 39 minutes and a few seconds before the first English try) and the satisfaction to be gained from it (twice as many entries within 22 meters, 100% of rucks won), they also kept their confidence in them and in others, until the last decisive penalty. “I was confident, it’s one of his qualities that he no longer has to demonstrate, it was just one more kick”said Nolann Le Garrec about his opener Thomas Ramos.

Above all, they remained involved until the end, like Maxime Lucu who entered the game just a quarter of an hour from the end and ready to take the last decisive penalty, as revealed by Fabien Galthié in press conference: “Max Lucu was hot to hit her, they were both hot, hot. Finally, Thomas felt her and hit her, but Max stood ready.”

This extra soul, the Blues also sought it thanks to their public, to whom they had clearly shown the intention of offering a victory and a game, and who maintained a very warm atmosphere throughout the meeting. “You were incredible, it’s like you were with us on the pitch”Charles Ollivon was moved at the stadium microphone just after the end of the game.

“To win here tonight, in this stadium, with this atmosphere, it was incredible. I think that’s the image we wanted to leave in this last match”added Nolann Le Garrec a few moments later at the microphone of France 2. The image of a team which gave everything to finish well, and rediscover the taste of victory in front of its own people.