Display in Paris attack 'blueprint'

JACK van Poortvliet insists England must build on the attacking foundations laid against France in Paris amid regret that it took until the final round of the Guinness Six Nations for them to be uncovered.

- By DUNCAN BECH

Poortvliet kicks during the defeat to France

England came alive on Saturday night after escaping the straightjacket that had held them back in the Championship, outscoring their rivals on the try count 7-6 by showing intent and ambition with the ballin hand.

It was not enough to prevent a fourth consecutive defeat and they still face fundamental questions over the alarming collapse lasting from rounds two to four, but van Poortvliet insists the path ahead was lit at the Stade de France.

“The way we attacked is our blueprint. That’s what we have to take forward,” the scrumhalf said.

“The boost and the confidence it gives when you're really going at a team like that, challenging them with speed of ball, it puts a great feeling into the team.