The French ran over for five tries and kept Wales scoreless in a match where Rhian Bowden's side were second best in both deed and thought.

France dominated the first half but only held a 12-0 lead at the break which offered Wales hope for the second spell.

However despite getting back into the match fleetingly Wales were unable to turn pressure into points - something the French didn't find difficult to achieve.

France had the better of the early exchanges on a pitch perfect for free flowing rugby. Wales initially withheld the early onslaught, preventing the big French pack from driving over. But the blue tide swept hooker Gaelle Mignot over in the fourth minute.

Caroline Ladagnous exploded into action in the 12th minute after scrum half Marie-Alice Yahe fed her directly from a scrum. She burst clear but the Welsh cover defence managed to keep out the dangerous looking Frenchwomen.

The try-line was eventually breached in the 16th minute when No8 Audrey Forlani drove over from close range. Aurelie Bailon added the conversion to give France a handy 12-0 lead.

Wales were given some hope when Marie-Charlotte Hebel was sent to the sin bin in the 35th minute after pole axing Rosie Fletcher after the Wales full back had chipped ahead.

Wales started better in the second spell with France again reduced in numbers when replacement Sandrine Agricole was binned however the home side couldn't capitalise.

France bided their time before showing Wales how it should be done. In the 66th minute the French pack drove from a lineout for Mignot to burrow her way over. Full back Jessy Tremouliere banged over an excellent conversion to give France a 19-0 lead.

There was no respite for Wales as the blue tide continued to flow one way. France surged downfield in a flowing movement involving several pairs of hands before winger Caroline Ladagnous finished with aplomb in the corner.
Wales ended the match a player down after replacement Sian Williams was binned for being off-side.

Elodie Portaries finished Wales off with a stunning solo try when she carried half the Wales pack over with her from 22m. She steamrolled into the open before charging towards the tryline like a woman possessed. Tremouliere added the conversion.

Wales plugged away until the end but finished the way they had started, indecisive and bereft of attacking ideas while the healthy contingent of French fans clapped their team off with pride and delight.