Pelous demands better showing

France captain Fabien Pelous warns Les Bleus must improve to overcome their “greatest rivals” England tomorrow in their second match of the RBS 6 Nations.

Bernard Laporte’s side needed a last-gasp try by centre Damien Traille to beat a rejuvenated Scotland 16-9 last weekend.

France’s performance marked a continuation of their disappointing displays in the autumn internationals – in which they were defeated by New Zealand and, more surprisingly, Argentina.

Pelous is more than aware that England are not the same side that lifted the 2003 World Cup in Sydney – but he still feels a win against France’s old enemy is something to cherish.

The lock is eager to erase the memories of the frustrating match against the Scots.

“We did not enjoy ourselves against Scotland,” said Pelous. “We were not good enough offensively but we performed okay in defence.

“We maybe wanted to do too much against Scotland and we lost our composure. This was an opener – but we must correct our mistakes against England. We must work and not feel pressurised. We want to show a different face from the November Test matches. England have marked the history of rugby – they are our greatest rivals.”

Pelous was not shocked by England’s 11-9 loss to Wales at the Millennium Stadium last weekend – because he feels Mike Ruddock’s men are one of the dark horses of this winter’s Six Nations.

“I know they lost to Wales last weekend but I was not surprised,” said the Toulouse captain.

“The Welsh have continuously improved since the 2003 World Cup.”

Christophe Dominici is also looking to make amends at Twickenham.

The France winger acknowledges the size of the task awaiting his team. But recalling last March’s 24-21 win over England – a victory which earned Les Bleus the Grand Slam in the 2004 tournament – he goes into tomorrow’s match in confident mood.

“The English are the defending world champions – but we beat them last year,” said Dominici.

“The most important thing is us, not them or what they can do. There will be pressure around the match, but it will be a good one. If we prepare well there is no need to worry.

“It will be a huge fight as usual, but this time England will be looking to redeem themselves after their loss to Wales.

“We won last weekend – but we will also want to redeem ourselves after our display.”