Women’s Six Nations: Spectre of England looms large for Wales

Wales have now lost 11 of their past 12 Tests and while they were rarely expected to beat France, they certainly had the visitors rattled at the Arms Park.

Pressure up front led to two swift yellow cards, either side of a penalty try, and plenty of uncharacteristic errors from Les Bleues.

But while Wales still held France to 7-7 at half-time, their failure to capitalise on a nine-minute period against 13 players told a story.

They also struggled to contain the inevitable backlash as France seized control with three tries in the space of 14 minutes early in the second half.

“We attempted 247 tackles, that’s a lot and it does take its toll,” said Lynn.

“We have to look to keep the ball more. It was the same against Scotland, we were forcing the ball.

“The set-piece did well in the first half but not in the second. We need to be more consistent in those areas.”

Lynn insists his side are closing the gap on the leading nations.

“We went in level at half-time against a top four side and I thought the final scoreline was harsh,” he added.

“It’s just making sure we’re getting better with the first 10-15 minutes of the second half and the bench needs to be making the sort of impact that France’s did.”