PARIS :France had Nicolas Depoortere and the boot of Thomas Ramos to thank as they spluttered to an unconvincing 34-21 victory over Fiji in their second Autumn international on Saturday, recovering after letting a 21-0 lead slip.

One week after being humbled 32-17 at the Stade de France by world champions South Africa, Fabien Galthie’s side showed attacking flair in the first half before being overpowered by Fiji, who were seen off by two Ramos penalties and a late try by centre Depoortere, his second of game.

France’s other points came from tries by Julien Marchand and Charles Ollivon and three Ramos conversions, while Fiji mounted their comeback through tries by Kalaveti Ravouvou, Selestino Ravutaumada, Jiuta Wainiqolo and conversions from Simione Kuruvoli.

Les Bleus will conclude the

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