France Seals Six Nations Victory in Scotland with Bielle-Biarrey’s Brilliant Display

In an impressive display of skill, Louis Bielle-Biarrey’s brilliance propelled France to a 20-16 triumph over Scotland in the Six Nations clash at Murrayfield. Despite controversy surrounding a disputed try at the final whistle, France emerged victorious under the watchful eye of Australian referee Nic Berry.

The pivotal moment arrived when winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey executed a stunning solo effort, breaching Scotland’s defense to secure the much-needed win for France. Although Scotland contested a potential match-winning try as the clock wound down, the Television Match Official’s scrutiny failed to overturn the referee’s decision, leaving the home crowd disheartened.

France’s victory came as a relief for coach Fabien Galthie, who faced mounting criticism following their disappointing loss to Ireland in Marseille. Trailing by six points with just minutes remaining, Bielle-Biarrey’s remarkable play turned the tide in France’s favor, aided by Thomas Ramos’ precise conversion and a crucial penalty.

Despite Scotland’s dominance for much of the match, highlighted by scrum-half Ben White’s try, they couldn’t convert pressure into points consistently. France’s struggles in the lineout and ball handling compounded the challenge, yet they capitalized on key opportunities, notably through Bielle-Biarrey’s heroics.

Scotland’s lone try, courtesy of White, showcased their attacking prowess but ultimately fell short as they failed to capitalize on numerical advantages. France, despite setbacks including the loss of captain Gregory Alldritt to injury, demonstrated resilience and determination to clinch victory.

With Bielle-Biarrey’s standout performance and a resilient team effort, France departed Edinburgh with a hard-fought triumph, marking a significant turnaround from their previous defeat.

Highlights

Line-ups:

Scotland

Paterson; Rowe, Jones, Tuipulotu, Van der Merwe; Russell (co-capt), White; Schoeman, Turner, Z Fagerson, Gilchrist, Cummings, M Fagerson, Darge (co-capt), Dempsey.

Replacements: Ashman, Hepburn, Millar-Mills, Skinner, Christie, Horne, Healy, Redpath.

France

Ramos, Penaud, Fickou, Danty, Bielle-Biarrey; Jalibert, Lucu; Baille, Mauvaka, Atonio, Woki, Gabrillagues, Cros, Ollivon, Alldritt (capt).

Replacements: Marchand, S Taofifenua, Aldegheri, Tuilagi, Roumat, Boudehent, Le Garrec, Moefana.

Referee: Nic Berry (Australia)

Man of the Mach: Gael Fickou (France)

Stats:

Scotland (13) 16
Scotland (13) 16
Try: White (7′)
Conversion: Russell (9′)
Penalty: Russell (22′, 30′, 58′)

France (10) 20
Try: Fickou (31′), Bielle-Biarrey (70′)
Conversion: Ramos (32′, 72′)
Penalty: Ramos (12′, 77′)

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