Six Nations: Kay: French success gives us 'moral' title

England A skipper Ben Kay claimed a "moral" Grand Slam victory after his side had defeated France to remain unbeaten in the championship.

Kay's side cannot officially claim the title following the abandonment of last month's clash with Ireland because of the foot and mouth epidemic and with no plans for the game to be restaged.

But they finished the campaign unbeaten by ending France's bid for the Grand Slam with tries from Paul Sampson and Pat Sanderson, and the rest of the points supplied by the boot of Charlie Hodgson for a 23-22 win in Cornwall.

"Although the championship won't be finished it's a moral victory," said Leicester lock Kay, who took on the captaincy for the first time when Steve Borthwick was promoted to the full international ranks.

"The A team lost away in France last year and thankfully we've managed to grind out a victory here.

"The win was the only thing. I'm just disappointed we couldn't play too much attacking rugby. That became obvious after 10 minutes because of the conditions."