France regained the Fassolette-Kielty Trophy with a thrilling 39-26 defeat of England in the second wheelchair Test at Medway Park in Kent.
Led by Nicolas Claussells, who scored 25 of their points with three tries, six goals and a drop goal, the 2017 World Cup champions confirmed their status as favourites for next year's tournament with emphatic back-to-back wins.
However, England will draw encouragement from an improved performance after their 49-24 defeat in last week's first Test, as they surged back from a 27-6 deficit to get within a single point of France.
A 20-point haul from Nathan Collins ensured the capacity crowd, which included England Men’s Head Coach Shaun Wane, were on the edge of their seats until the brilliant Clausells scored from a kick by brother and captain Gilles Clausells.
Dany Denuwalaere then rumbled over for his second try in the corner to spark French celebrations.
Interstate rivalry extends to wheelchair rugby league
England captain Tom Halliwell had opened the scoring with a brave drive from close range, converted by Joe Coyd, who produced an outstanding 80-minute performance.
But France seized control by half-time with a 21-6 lead, playing some sparkling rugby league – and in the end it proved just enough to secure the Fassolette-Kielty Trophy.
The trophy was established in 2012 in honour of Frenchman Robert Fassolette and Englishman Malcolm Kielty, who pioneered wheelchair rugby league on either side of the Channel.
The BBC's live coverage of the two Tests between France and England demonstrates the foresight of Fassolette and Kielty.
The BBC's live coverage of the two Tests between France and England demonstrates the foresight of Fassolette and Kielty.
England won the first Wheelchair World Cup in 2008 in Australia but France have now emerged as the most dominant nation
