Wales remained on course to retain their Six Nations title after a 23-15 victory over England yesterday but they had to work desperately hard for it in a game of high tension and fluctuating fortunes.

Wales built healthy leads in each half but England, showing terrific spirit and some of the backline invention absent from their backs for so long, refused to buckle despite again having two players yellow carded.

It was 9-8 at half-time as a Paul Sackey try took the wind out of the home side's sales after Wales had dominated the opening 20 minutes and scored three penalties and, after a Leigh Halfpenny try, were ahead 20-8 early in the second half.

England got back to within five after a Delon Armitage try but Stephen Jones settled the home nerves, and the match, with his fifth penalty nine minutes from time.

Next up for Wales is a trip to Paris on February 27, while England visit Ireland the following day.

In Paris, Flanker Fulgence Ouedraogo's second-half try and five penalties by flyhalf Lionel Beauxis gave France a 22-13 victory over Scotland at the Stade de France.

Scotland held their own in the first half and winger Thom Evans added to two earlier Phil Godman penalties with a try ten minutes from time but the visitors never seriously threatened the home side.

France started the match under pressure to make up for last week's opening 30-21 loss to Ireland while Scotland, who have not won at the Stade de France in 10 years, were easily beaten by champions Wales.

Playing today: 15.30 Italy vs Ireland.

Standings: Wales 4; England, Ireland, France 2; Scotland, Italy 0.