Six Nations talking points: England discipline proves costly as France claim title

England’s recent defeat against France will leave fans discussing some moments for years to come, but their lack of discipline in the Six Nations came to the fore once again, particularly at the end of both halves in Paris.

Leading 27-17 as half-time approached, Ellis Genge was put to shame after referee Nika Amashukeli ruled the prop had landed a blow just after two quick penalties had given France the momentum.

“After those three penalties in under two minutes England conceded 21 points, including the try,” former Wales and Lions captain Sam Warburton told BBC Rugby Special.

“Then they conceded 14 more points with 14 players, so it was 21 points in this period. The two minutes they made mistakes were really important.”

In the last moments of normal time, when England was ahead 46-45, the referee gave France the option of a penalty kick from two positions after violations by Trevor Davison and Maro Itoje.

Thomas Ramos made no mistake as France secured the title. Speaking on Rugby Special, former Scotland captain John Barclay said the short spell would be one England would regret.

“After the goal scored by Tommy Freeman, a France player went into the sin bin in the last two minutes. Looking at how England managed this period, they took the game into their hands and threw it away.

“It was a really disappointing end for England. It’s going to be a really tough briefing on how they managed those crucial moments in the final part of the game.”

“They are top of the Championship overall for penalties with eight yellows and one red, and the damage they do to them is the 63 points they conceded with a player off the pitch.”