France scored nine tries to thrash the Springbok Women 55-3 at the World Cup in Marcoussis on Tuesday.

The breakdowns and lineouts proved to be problematic for South Africa in the first half, which handed France several attacking opportunities, and with their forwards dominating and the team high on confidence they capitalised on their chances. This combined with a series of errors at crucial times by South Africa in the second half, saw the visitors suffer their second defeat of the tournament, having lost 26-3 to Australia.

Such was the dominance of the French pack in the first half that they earned four tries, while the backs used their slick passing skills to score a try of their own. The hosts went on to score another four tries in the second half to complete a convincing win and end South Africa's semi-final hopes.

Meanwhile, Ireland produced one of the shocks of the Women’s World Cup history by beating four-time world champions New Zealand. As a result of their 17-14 victory, Ireland have taken command of Pool B with a two-point lead now established over the Black Ferns and USA, who meet in the final round of pool fixtures on Saturday.

South Africa will play Wales in their final pool match.

Springbok Women – Penalty: Zenay Jordaan.
France – Tries: Safi N’Daye (2), penalty try, Assa Koita, Laetitia Salles, Christelle Leduff (2), Elodie Poublan, Camille Grassineau. Conversions: Leduff (5).

Photo: Stephane de Sakutin/AFP Photo