England hold off fighting French for seventh-straight Six Nations crown

TO THE VICTORS: England's Zoe Aldcroft lifts the trophy after winning the Guinness Women's Six Nations match at Allianz Stadium, London. Pic: Adam Davy/PA Wire

England claimed a seventh successive Guinness Women's Six Nations title but subjected Allianz Stadium to a white knuckle ride in a ragged 43-42 victory over France.

The Red Roses raced to a 31-7 lead inside half an hour with Emma Sing crossing twice, but their early conviction vanished as France woke up to the opportunity before them in this Grand Slam decider.