France vs Italy LIVE: Six Nations rugby result and reaction from Stade de France

The French scrum is anchored by the enormous Uini Atonio and predictably stable. Damian Penaud is thrust into midfield off the blindside wing and is over the gain line, developing quick ball. Opportunities appear as France then whisk the ball wide, and a stab through over the slippery surface just evades an onrushing Gabin Villiere with chalk on his boots sliding for the corner. Nearly. Villiere spills forward into touch and Italy will have the scrum.

Man alive that is a thump! France absolutely hammer a long punt towards Paolo Garbisi, who is forced in to an unexpected retreat, like a boundary fielder who has rushed in too early. Garbisi drops it. France scrum near the Italian 22.

A banker for a man emerging as one of the most reliable kickers from the tee in Europe. A confident early strike from Jaminet and the hosts are underway.

Dupont is tackled firmly but Italy are wandering free before the ball is out of the resulting ruck. Offside, penalty to France, and a first shot at goal for Melvyn Jaminet from 35 out, right in front.

Another solid set-piece from Italy but France’s rush defence is in good early working order, twice thumping Italy back and forcing them to the boot.

Melvyn Jaminet’s first touch is a fine one - a rock-solid high claim under serious pressure. France clear.

Italy’s attempt at a long riposte clips a French hand and tumbles into the hands of Antoine Dupont inside the Italy half.

But Cyril Baille is then picked out for a breakdown offence and Italy will kick the penalty back down into the French half.

A solid opening clearance from France. Italy will have first attacking ball near the ten-metre.

Efficient throw and transfer to the scrum-half, and Marco Zanon carries well in midfield. Centre partner Ignacio Brex then threatens to stride through, but France cling on and then jar the ball free, Jonathan Danty getting his frame upon it to win the ball back France’s way.

Damian Penaud arrives with ideal timing to clatter Monty Ioane as he claims a Antoine Dupont box kick.

Paolo Garbisi hoists high and France vs Italy is underway!

Gael Fickou frowns as he figures out where to stand to receive Italy’s opening kick-off. And the ball is brought on by a little car! Good to see it back in work after its starring role at Euro 2020.

The French players don’t need to be in quite such fine voice, helped as they are by the home support, who rather tunefully drown out the accompanying music. Among those singing along is French rugby supremo Bernard Laporte.

Another fine rendition to tee us up for the last game of the opening weekend.