Slovakia v France
Slovakia (3) v France (7)
Les Bleus almost had the blues 30 seconds into this encounter on pitch one when they conceded a penalty. Fortunately it was saved by their goalkeeper. To rub salt into Slovak wounds the French scored. However, France's keeper conceded a second penalty and this time there was no mistake to tie it up at one each.
The highlight of watching France play is the loping Patrick Mebu. Six foot-plus, Mebu looks like he should be donning the blue jersey of France's rugby team and lining up at the front of the scrum. He wears a headband that covers his ears like a front-row forward and only moves when he has to, but not many players can find a way past him. But find a way Slovakia did, and they found themselves 3-2 up before a great strike levelled for the French and a series of terrific goals broke Slovakian resistance for a comprehensive 7-3 win and three points.
Frank Prenesti
