Canada no match for the French

By Mark Stevens
12/11/22

France finished their Rugby World Cup 2021 campaign with a flourish by running in five tries in a 36-0 win over Canada in the Bronze Final, producing a dominant display of attacking vivacity and defensive resilience.

It is the sixth time Les Bleues have claimed bronze at the tournament and the third time they have defeated Canada in this fixture, having previously done so in 2002 and 2006.

Canada, who included the Exeter Chiefs trio of Emily Tuttosi, DeLeaka Menin and Gabby Senft, were no match for the French, whose tries came from Madoussou Fall, Pauline Bourdon and Marine Menager, supplemented by the boot of Caroline Drouin, put France 22-0 up at the break.

The French dominance continued in the second half as prop Annaelle Deshaye crossed early before Menager dotted down France’s fifth to seal a resounding victory in which Drouin kicked 11 points.

It was France’s first win over Canada since 2013, ending a four-match losing run, while it marked the sixth time they have taken bronze - their joint-best ever finish.