A Saint-Denis,
Gregor Townsend stigmatized the lack of realism of his team, swept aside 36-14: “We conceded too many points in the first half, which made it difficult to win. We played well in the first twenty minutes but we didn’t achieve anything. Against big teams, you have to know how to take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves. “. While not hiding his admiration for the executioners of his team: “They defended well. They started the match really well. They are clinical, they have managed to make every opportunity come true. As soon as they enter your 22, they put points. And then I think they were monumental in defense when they were a little under pressure in the first 20 minutes. They are an extraordinary team and they showed it tonight. They are the best in the world for the last two years and it is not for nothing that they have 17 consecutive victories. » Townsend praised his team’s proud reaction at the end of the match: “The match got away from us in the first half so we focused on regaining respect. We take a little pride in the two tries in the second half, but we remain very disappointed by the result and by our performance in the first half. We are going out against the best team in the world, the best in the last ten years. We thought we could beat them, but they were excellent tonight. I’ve never seen them play so well. »
