Cold, wet and miserable is how they describe the weather in Wales, not at all!! There was sun and it was very dry, plus probably the largest gatherings of the French, for a 6 Nations match I have ever witnessed.
With the roof firmly closed the atmosphere was electric, the volumes of the noise were on the verge of being nearly unbearable, but if you were present, a memory that will be cherished for many years. After the choirs the regimental sing along, and the Anthems the match finally got under way but still a memorable built up to this great event.

The match started a 100mph. with France dominating throughout the first 40 minutes scoring tries, coming from Palisson and our very own Francois Trinh-Duc and Parra faultless with the boot the teams went to the break with France leading 20-0.

The second half was a different story and Wales came back strongly, Warren Gatland had obviously spoken harsh words during the break, throwing the ball about basket ball style, Wales managed tries through Halfpenny and probably the try of the Tournament from Shane Williams, who beat 3 or 4 French players from 40 yards in the corridor of the touch and 5 yard lines side steps, jigs, just pure brilliance, there is no surprise that Toulon wish to acquire his services next season, but after his performance on Friday evening, the price may well have increased by a handsome amount.

Finally France managed to hold on to their lead with a couple of nervous moments in the last 5 minutes, but their defence which was excellent throughout the game held on finally winning 26-20, they basked themselves in glory with a well deserved lap of honour, this team is going to be hard to beat, perfection is not there yet, but they are getting closer every game.

The night was long but in the company of our speaker fetish, Monsieur Labourdette, the evening was entertaining and I introduced him to numerous well known Welsh watering holes, where the colours of France were flowing like champagne, all around  “Allez les Bleus”, was being sung and France had invaded and conquered Wales with success.

The following day the festivities continued , with victories for Italy over Scotland and then the massive upset by Ireland beating England in their own temple, Twickenham, I have never seen the Welsh turn nationality so quickly, to encourage the Celt neighbours the Irish in their massive task, but then again there was never any love lost between these countries everyone wants to beat England.

Before you knew it,it was all over and we were all on our way home but with great memories and another victory under our belts, a must visit for anyone who has never witnessed a 6 Nations game in Cardiff. Next stop Paris against Italy then hopefully the finale match of this year’s tournament against the old enemy England and who knows the infamous GRAND SLAM? Watch this space!!!

Steve Whittell.