Six Nations Talking Points: England’s discipline has proven costly with France claiming the title

England’s last-gasp defeat to France will have their fans discussing certain moments for years to come, but their lack of discipline throughout the Six Nations came to the fore again – particularly at half-time in Paris.

France led 27-17 heading into half-time, and Elis Genge was fouled after referee Nneka Amashukele ruled that a prop had caused a drop, shortly after two quick penalties returned the momentum to France.

“After those three kicks in less than two minutes, England conceded 21 points including that penalty attempt,” Sam Warburton, the former Wales and Lions captain, said on a BBC Rugby special.

“Then with 14 men, they conceded another 14 points, so 21 points in that period. It was a really crucial two minutes where they made mistakes.”

Then, in the final moments of normal time, with England leading 46-45, the referee gave France the option of a penalty kick from either position, after fouls by Trevor Davison and Maro Itoje.

Thomas Ramos did nothing wrong to secure the title for France. Speaking on Rugby Special, former Scotland captain John Barkley said the short spell would be one England would regret.

“In the last two minutes after Tommy Freeman scored, France had a player in the bin. When England looked at how they handled the period, they had the game in their hands and threw it away.

“It was a really disappointing end for England. It will be very difficult to debrief how they managed those crucial moments in the final part of the game.

“At tournament level, they are the ones who have conceded the most penalties, with eight bookings and one red, and the damage done to them – they have conceded 63 points with a player off the field.”