England U18 defeated by France in SA

England U18 were outdone by northern hemisphere rivals France in George, South Africa, losing 20-13 at Outeniqua Park Stadium in a bruising encounter.
The loss is England’s first in ten matches, a run that started almost a year ago against Australian Academy Under 19 in Sydney.
Head Coach John Fletcher said: “Our work ethic was very good today but at times the backs lacked consistency and made some unforced errors. Our forwards were excellent all game though and we really came into it in the last 20 minutes, the lads gave their all, it just wasn’t to be.
“The French defended well – they’re a well organised side and to be fair they probably just edged the game, but it was very close.”
England now prepare to face South Africa on Cape Town on Saturday.