Pool A: N Zealand, Scotland, Tonga, Ireland, S Korea, USA Pool B: England, Samoa, France, Italy, Georgia, Chinese Taipei Pool C: Fiji, Australia, Canada, Portugal, Japan, Hong Kong Pool D: Argentina, S Africa, Kenya, Tunisia, Russia, Uruguay

It was a nervy performance from England and Simon Amor missed two crucial second-half conversions.

And despite earlier wins over Italy and Georgia, England must now beat Samoa and Chinese Taipei on Saturday if they are to reach the last eight.

France and Samoa ended the day unbeaten on three wins.

England had not conceded a try in their opening two games but were soon on the rack against France when they crossed twice early on.

Harlequins wing Ugo Monye and Newcastle's Phil Dowson added scores either side of the break to reduce the gap but Julien Carraud restored France's lead.

Geoff Appleford scored England's third try but further basic errors allowed France in again to seal the win.

On Saturday there aren't any second chances for England England Sevens coach Mike Friday

England coach Mike Friday admitted afterwards that France were the better team on the day.

"They were more hungry than we were and were more clinical in some of their play. We were sloppy in parts and made unnecessary errors," he said.

"We simply didn't play well enough or as we should and they won. However, Saturday is another day and we will use this and learn from it.

"I am sure that this defeat will give the players extra fire in their bellies and they will come out on Saturday with all guns blazing.

"On Saturday there aren't any second chances for England and we have to win, and we have to play well."

The 24-team field competes in four pools, each featuring one of the top four seeds.

The top two teams in each pool advance to the championship round, with the remaining teams taking part in the plate and bowl competitions.