Safe in the knowledge that the 2010 Six Nations title is theirs after Scotland's win in Dublin, France warm up before their bid to complete a ninth Grand Slam, which would be their third of the Six Nations era
Flanker Lewis Moody, captain in the absence of Steve Borthwick, leads England out for the first time at a packed and intensely partisan Stade de France in Paris
Despite an early drop-goal from France fly-half Francois Trinh-Duc, England take the lead in the sixth minute following a fine passing move finished off by Ben Foden, who slides in for his first international try
Although not quite as free-flowing and confident as some of their previous performances, France regain the lead through the reliable boot of scrum-half Morgan Parra
The relentless rain makes handling a treacherous affair but despite the slippery conditions, both teams endeavour to spread the ball wide in search of tries
Debutant England winger Chris Ashton spurns a glorious try-scoring chance when he opts to kick ahead rather than pass outside to Riki Flutey as Clement Poitrenaud just about clears the danger in the 49th minute
With time ticking away, England manager Martin Johnson brings on Jonny Wilkinson - and the Toulon fly-half lands a superb long-range penalty to reduce the arrears to two points
England save their best until last against a cautious France, but the hosts hang on for a 12-10 victory. However, the performances of some of their newer breed are at least cause for optimism
France captain Thierry Dusautoir holds aloft the Six Nations trophy as his side celebrate their first Grand Slam since 2004. England finish the tournament in third, one place lower than last year
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