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Rhys Williams ran the French ragged and thought he'd scored a late try
(Main) Rhys Williams ran the French ragged and thought he'd scored a late try (Thumb) Shane Williams, one of the Wales backs division Laporte has paid tribute to, wings past Serge Betsen
Huw Evans
Laporte pays tribute
9 March 2004, 10:06 am
By WRU
France Coach, Bernard Laporte, has paid tribute to Wales's pacy back division in the wake of their RBS Six Nations encounter last weekend.
Wales fell foul of the French in a 22-29 loss, but once again displayed a fighting spirit that left the France Coach praising Steve Hansen's side.

"After the Rugby World Cup everyone knows Wales were capable of moving the ball around and have lots of speed among their backs, but I thought we controlled a game we simply had to win," said Laporte. 

French Premier, Laporte, reckons Wales are likely to suffer the backlash of England's shock defeat to Ireland on Saturday: "Wales will want to play well but I think they will find it very difficult. England will be very upset by their loss and will want to prove something to the home crowd.

"Wales have not got a chance of winning the title now but England still do so it will be very tough."

France's victory over Wales means they continue their march to a Grand Slam and a potential Championship decider with England later this month.

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