In a gripping Nations Championship encounter at the One NZ Stadium, France narrowly succumbed to the All Blacks with a score of 34-32. Despite the loss, several French players showcased their burgeoning talent and resilience. Here's how they fared in the match.
Full-back Max Spring, often questioned for his ability at the Test level, answered his critics by making two clean breaks and covering 52 metres, proving his worth in the backline with a score of 7.
Damian Penaud, wearing the 14 jersey, left the New Zealand crowd in awe by scoring a try within the first minute, following a beautifully orchestrated French move. His early exit at halftime, likely due to injury, was a blow to the team, also earning a 7.
"Fabien Brau-Boirie was utterly magnificent."
Centre Fabien Brau-Boirie, a somewhat controversial pick at 13 instead of his usual inside centre position, was outstanding, despite a disallowed try due to a knock-on. His overall performance was pivotal in keeping France in contention, earning him a 9.
Yoram Moefana, although physical, struggled to translate his club form to the international stage, scoring a 6. His fellow backline player, Theo Attissogbe, was more successful, scoring a try and setting up another, earning a solid 7.
Matthieu Jalibert, the fly-half, was central to France's efforts, orchestrating play and continuously threatening the All Blacks' defence. His efforts were thrilling to watch, meriting an 8.
Scrum-half and captain Maxime Lucu managed the game well from the base of the ruck, showing calm under pressure, which almost tipped the scales in France's favor. His performance earned an 8.
Marko Gazzotti and Oscar Jégou both showed their mettle, with Gazzotti becoming a key player in the second half and Jégou battling tirelessly in the tight, both scoring a 7 and 8 respectively.
Pierre Bochaton, however, found the going tough against the All Blacks' physicality, leaving the field at the 33rd minute with a score of 5.
In the forwards, Jefferson Poirot returned impressively to the international scene, his scrummaging solid and his presence felt in loose play, scoring a 7. However, Demba Bamba struggled in the scrum, conceding penalties which cost him a low score of 3.
The replacements, including Antoine Hastoy and Mickael Guillard, brought energy and impact, with Hastoy scoring a try amidst the fray, both earning a collective 7.
This match not only highlighted individual brilliance but also underscored the depth and potential within French rugby, promising a bright future despite the narrow defeat.