On March 27, 2004, the XV of France, carried by an excellent Dimitri Yachvili, beat England (24-21) and thus achieved the 8th Grand Slam in its history. Fabulous.
It was 16 years ago today: the XV de France beat England at the Stade de France (24-21). A special match, where the Blues were frightened after leading 21-3 at the break. Finally, the outcome was favorable, with the key to the 8th Grand Slam in the history of tricolor rugby.
An almost mastered tournament
Before offering a dream final at the Stade de France, facing the reigning world champions, the band of Bernard Laporte showed mastery during this 2004 edition. Above all, it launched perfectly, clearly dominating the ” Ireland at home (35-17). Against Italy, it ensured the minimum union, however signing a clear victory without conceding the slightest point (25-0).
The strong passage with two trips to Wales (22-29) and Scotland is then validated, with in particular a demonstration at Murrayfield with an unqualified success 0-31 (with a double from Jauzion). In short, four great victories, symbols of a strong, complete XV of France, which has almost no flaws.
A 20-minute demonstration against England …
The “final” therefore takes place against England, who, beaten by Ireland, can no longer make the Grand Slam. If the match is difficult to start with a big observation round of more than a quarter of an hour, the XV of France knocks out the XV of the Rose with 20 minutes of anthology.
During this time, Dimitri Yachvili is in a state of grace. A light-touching pass for Harinordoquy’s try (23rd), a sensational personal feat before the break (38th) and 4 successful goal attempts. The Biarrot lights up the match and allows France to lead 21-3.
A 3-18 in the second half…
The second period was mainly the awakening of the world champions. The gang of Lawrence Dallaglio is not going to be walked on like that anyway. Its pack is necessary to counter the undermining work of Servat, Pelous and Betsen.
Ben Cohen (52 ‘) finds the fault, and Josh Lewsey (75’) sows a wind of panic in the stands of the Stade de France. Fortunately, Yachvili, author of 19 points in all, converted a penalty during this second act where the Blues were very, very scared!
The XV of France against England March 27, 2004: Brusque; Elhorga, Jauzion (Poitrenaud, 57th), Traille, Dominici; (o) Michalak, (m) Yachvili; Magne, Harinordoquy, Betsen; Papé, Pelous (Auradou, 75th); De Villiers, Servat (Bru, 57th), Marconnet (Crenca, 70th).
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