Three-try France end Irish grand slam dream

France derailed Ireland's dream of a first grand slam in 57 years and kept their own hopes of retaining their Six Nations title alive with a breathless 26-19 win at Lansdowne Road yesterday.

First half tries from the impressive Christophe Dominici and debutant centre Benoit Baby put France in the driving seat and a committed defence weathered a second half Irish storm before Dominici went over for his second try late on to seal the win.

Ireland, chasing their first grand slam since their solitary clean sweep in 1948, were nervy and disjointed for much of the match, but were given hope by a brilliant second half solo try from skipper Brian O'Driscoll that set up a thrilling finale.

France could retain the title if they beat Italy in Rome on March 19 and other results go their way, while Ireland could still triumph with a win on the same day in Cardiff against Wales - who will be chasing a grand slam of their own if they beat Scotland today.

"We played against a good team, we knew before the game that Ireland were one of the best teams in the world and we are very happy because we are young team, we are rebuilding," said French coach Bernard Laporte, who has said he is looking towards 2007 when France host the World Cup.

Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan said he thought his team had showed real spirit to come back against a strong wind in the second half.

"This French team has won two grand slams in three years and they're a very formidable outfit," he said. "They deserved to win today ... but at the end of the day it was a game we could have won. It's a tough one to take but that's the way it goes."

England grab first win

Winger Mark Cueto grabbed a hat-trick as England secured their first win of the 2005 Six Nations with a 39-7 victory over Italy at Twicke-nham.

Despite further tries from recalled fullback Iain Balshaw, under-fire hooker Steve Thompson and flanker Andy Hazell, this was not a wholly convincing victory for England although they will be happy just to get a win after three defeats.

Italy once again paid the price for having no real linebreakers in their backs, although experienced scrum-half Alessandro Troncon ran through prop Graham Rowntree's tackle for his team's try early in the second half.

England host Scotland in their final match, while Italy must beat France in Rome if they are to have any hope of avoiding the wooden spoon.