After a disappointing defeat to Ireland two weeks ago, Wales bounced back in style as tries in each half from George North and skipper Warburton gave them what was eventually a comfortable cushion.
Leigh Halfpenny added 17 points with the boot in a display which saw Wales make light of the loss of Alun Wyn Jones with an aggressive forwards display. Jones’ late withdrawal due to a foot infection gave Jake Ball his first Test start and the Scarlets lock was one of a number of men who stood up well to the French pack.
Man of the match Gethin Jenkins and Warburton rightly took plenty of plaudits as Gatland’s men outmuscled and outplayed their oppositions.
A superb start to the game had seen Wales lead 20-6 at the break with North’s early score and Halfpenny’s boot doing the damage.
In a tight second half, Wales didn’t have it all their own way but Warburton’s score and a strong defensive effort kept France at bay.
Here’s what Sam and Warren had to say at the final whistle:
Sam: “It was about mindset this evening. We are always determined to play for Wales and before the game it was one of the most emotional changing rooms I have been involved in – we were desperate to put things right.
“We prepared really well for this game and it’s been hard in training this week. You always want to start well but today it was so important against a side like France.
“I wasn’t sure about my try, Martyn Williams scored tries in one game against France so I’ve still got a way to go.”
Warren: “I’m really happy with that. We responded well and I thought the atmosphere was absolutely brilliant this evening – the crowd were amazing.
“It was a good game and a fantastic result. I’m not surprised by the result – we knew we could put right what happened in Dublin.
“We set high standards for ourselves and Ireland was one of those days. We were dominated up front and that’s never nice to take but today I thought the display upfront was great and we took our points when they were on offer. To have that turnaround was brilliant.
“George North is not going too badly at centre at the moment and I thought our loose forwards were great. Sam Warburton was absolutely over the ball and in the contact area and overall, the players responded brilliantly.”
