Anthony Watson hails England’s ‘togetherness’ after comeback against France

Winger marked his 50th Test cap with a try

Watson scored England’s first try of the afternoon (Getty Images)

England winger Anthony Watson praised his side’s “togetherness” after their stunning last-gasp victory over France in the Six Nations.

France scored just 80 seconds into the match through Antoine Dupont but Eddie Jones’ men hit back to win 23-20 and end Les Bleus’ Grand Slam hopes.

Watson, who was named Player of the Match on his 50th cap, said: “We won’t be happy with how we started that’s for sure. But it shows the togetherness of the squad that we were able to bounce back from that and put on a good display to come away with the win.

“Especially scoring a try [through Maro Itoje] in the last five minutes to put us in the lead. The way we controlled it at the end was the main thing and we’re pretty happy with that.”

And the 27-year-old, who scored England’s opening try, added he hadn’t yet taken in his achievement of winning 50 caps.

“I don’t know how to respond to it because I try and take each game as it comes. Maybe I’ll start to reflect tonight, it might be at the end of this campaign but I think I’ll be happy with it once I get the time to do that.”

The England victory has ended France’s Grand Slam dream though Fabien Galthie’s side can still win the tournament. They will have to beat Wales next weekend and Scotland in their rescheduled match to take the title.

Rugby coverage is brought to you in association with QBE who help businesses build resilience through risk management and insurance. For more information go to QBEEUROPE.com