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PARIS - Jonny Wilkinson's world test record 29th drop goal helped England defeat defending Six Nations champions France 24-13 today.
The visitors, who had started by losing to Wales at Twickenham before struggling to beat Italy, showed signs of nerves after opening a 10-0 lead but did enough to deny the French a third consecutive win.
Tries to wing Paul Sackey and halfback Richard Wigglesworth, as well as 14 points from first five-eighths Wilkinson's boot, gave England another win over France after their World Cup semi-final victory on the same pitch four months ago.
Among Wilkinson's tally was the drop goal that put him ahead of Argentine Hugo Porta in the record books.
France, who had beaten Scotland and Ireland in their first two matches with a rejuvenated side, fought bravely but had to be content with a try by lock Lionel Nallet converted by centre Damien Traille and a penalty each for scrumhalves Morgan Parra and Dimitri Yachvili.
- REUTERS
