Rugby: France end England's Grand Slam dream

For the fourth year running, England's Grand Slam dream has been crushed by a powerful French performance at Stade de France in Paris.

Two first-half tries by Merceron and Harinordoqui put the French on the road to their third victory in this year's Championship.

Both scores were converted by the outstanding out-half Merceron, who also booted a first-half penalty.

Jason Robinson reduced the home side's lead to 17-7 with a try on half-time, which was converted by Jonny Wilkinson.

The English out-half added a 43rd minute penalty but this was cancelled out by Merceron on 60 minutes.

England got a late consolation through Ben Cohen but this wasn't enough to save Clive Woodward's side from defeat.

Full-time: France 20, England 15