I think we can say for certain now that France will not be beating England for the first time in 43 years.

But given they got pumped 64-0 when these nations met last year, there is some reason to be cheerful.

France have lost a little edge now. Cesar Rouge with a misdirected kick hands possession back to England.

France need to dig deep to stop this game running away from them.

England have scored five tries today. Harry Smith has only converted one of them, and they haven't all been difficult kicks.

That's a lot of points to leave on the table.

Paul Cooke
Former England international on SuperLeague+

England have been defensively strong during that period, which will please the coaching staff. There are still points in the game. Whether France can close the game or England run away, I don't think it'll finish 18-8.

Anniversary man Ben Garcia has been the best player on the pitch in the second half. Every good passing move France do goes through him.

But England, while lacking in attack, are still sturdy in defence.

So, 25 minutes to play. This could still go either way.

England have not really threatened a score in the second half - but as they proved in the first half, they can blitz their way to multiple tries in a matter of minutes.

France have rediscovered their mojo. A smart kick by Romain Navarrete almost gets them in behind, and only another timely intervention from Harry Smith stops an almost-certain try.

Eep, Franck Maria has just taken an absolute clattering to the side of his head.

He's made of tough stuff, however. If I got a blow like that, I'd just cry.

Yep, knock on.

Good defending by Harry Smith, poor from Goudemand.

Yeah. Under pressure from Harry Smith, Mickael Goudemand has knocked on.

This surely won't count.

From the penalty, Hakim Miloudi runs 30 yards left and zero yards forward.

Then Ben Garcia tees up Mickael Goudemand, who is convinced he has grounded a try! But he might well have fumbled it - we go to the video...

France finally get the ball through hands, Hakim Miloudi is only denied by a shuddering hit.

Now France have a penalty approaching the line...

Now Tyler Dupree drops the ball for England!

This has been pretty dire stuff from both sides since the break.

Tiaki Chan has not impressed since coming off the French bench. He knocks on for the second time in seven minutes.

Hakim Miloudi is arguing with anyone who will listen about an grievance I think he has made up in his own head.

Brad O'Neill then knocks on for England.

It has been a scrappy start to this second half, especially from France.

George Williams with a grubber kick, it takes about three deflections including off the right upright of the France goal posts!

Eventually the French get possession back, that was heart in mouth stuff!

Hmm, Tiaki Chan gives possession away with the first phase of the second half.

Not an ideal start for France.

Engalnd get us under way for the final 40 minutes of this rugby league marathon.