But it was a far from convincing performance by the French, who simply refused to play any rugby in the match and instead relied on their strong defence and Welsh mistakes to take the victory.
Yet the game will forever be remembered for a crucial and critical call by referee Alain Rolland in red carding Welsh captain Sam Warburton in the 18th minute for a tip-tackle, a decision which is set to be debated across the world for weeks to come.
It is unfortunate once again that the referees are in the spotlight once again, but Warburton should have known better when he lifted French winger Vincent Clerc, tipped him and dropped him on his shoulders and head.
While the tackle was probably not intended, and Warburton did let Clerc go at the last second rather than bore him into the ground, it was always going to be a card. A yellow may have been more appropriate, especially so early in the game, but it must be remembered the International Rugby Board adopted a zero tolerance approach to tip tackles some time ago, with referees being urged to start at Red and work their way down with mitigating circumstances.— Supersport
