Insults, criticism light a fire under France

LIAM NAPIER

Last updated 15:07 20/10/2011

IAIN McGREGOR/Fairfax NZ

FEELING DISRESPECTED: "They feel attacked and under pressure," placid French assistant coach Gonzalo Quesada said of his players.

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France are backed into a dark corner, alone but not afraid.

The constant criticism that's dubbed them the worst World Cup finalists of all time is consuming. But those insults are only enhancing their desire to be crowned World Cup champions for the first time.

Thrashed by the All Blacks and defeated by tier-two Tonga in pool play, France then discovered a quarterfinal performance to be proud of before producing arguably the ugliest semifinal win in history against 14-man Wales. Hardly an inspiring track record at this tournament is it.

Yet that counts for nothing now.

They are in the final. Accept it, move on. France doesn't owe anyone an explanation. Sure, they had some luck, fell on their face along the rocky way and continue to amaze with playground squabbles. But the enigmatic French are the first to admit they haven't been flash. Heck, even the heartiest French fans didn't anticipate them staying this long.

"There aren't many French supporters left. I don't think they thought we would make it to the final," lock Pascal Pape said after giving his side 10 per cent chance of winning Sunday's final with the in-form All Blacks.

"We will do everything in our power to succeed. We would love to be the first generation to become world champions."

Les Bleus have read and heard the engulfing condemnation expressed from every corner of New Zealand and indeed around the globe. How could they not?

Most of world rugby now wants an All Black victory to fulfil the fairytale and end 24-years of anguish for the hosts, except those watching with red wine, moustaches and fine cheese in Paree.

"They feel attacked and under pressure," placid French assistant coach Gonzalo Quesada said of his players. "They know people think they shouldn't be in the final. It's quite hard to read, quite hard to listen for them and their families. It's something that motivates you and makes you want to show how much you're worth on the pitch.

"We're not perfect. We have nothing to answer to people who are criticising us because we didn't play as well as they think we should to get into the final."

Former captain and 64-test veteran Lionel Nallet compared the mocking to being "massacred" in the world-wide press.

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"There's been no recognition, that's for sure," Nallet grumbled. "If we win this match, there will be."

Influential halfback Dimitri Yachvili bristled when asked why France had been written off.

"We don't care," he said. "We know there will be 15 on 15. It may well be the case that's it's us against the world."

Isolated, maybe. But France are not intimidated. This conjecture and controversy has only brought them closer together. It's where they thrive.

France are rightful outsiders, but a change of tone is needed.

- © Fairfax NZ News