CHRIS FOY: Ange Capuozzo’s match-winning try will go down in folklore

While the Six Nations proved to be a disappointing campaign for Eddie Jones’ side, there were some special moments that stood out in the tournament.

France were deserving Grand Slam champions after a thoroughly impressive performance throughout the competition, with their win over Ireland in Paris being a standout moment.

And while Italy were never touted to win, they showed desire and heart to best Wales on the final day. 

Best result

Italy beating Wales. An Italian win is what the tournament has been lacking for too long. It can’t thrive with a glaring weak link. The joy of the Azzurri in Cardiff will have resonated in the Six Nations boardroom.

Best try

Plenty of worthy contenders which were eclipsed by that miracle strike from the Italians. Ange Capuozzo will go down in folklore for the slaloming run from his own half which set up Edoardo Padovani.

Best pass

The handling quality of several props has been notable. Cyril Baille of France was the best, but nothing could beat Ellis Genge’s stunning, lofted assist off his left hand for Jamie George’s second try in Rome.

Ange Capuozzo’s match-winning try was arguably the best moment of the Six Nations

Biggest comedown

Scotland edge this one. They snatched victory over England and were convinced of their title credentials, only to collapse in a heap of recriminations.

Best match

The showdown in Paris between France and Ireland, as it was the meeting of the top tier. These two sides were so much better than the rest and they laid on a pulsating encounter.

Bolt from the blue

Irish hopes in that early title decider were lifted by Mack Hansen’s remarkable smash-and-grab try, when he stole a re-start kick from under Melvyn Jaminet’s nose to race away and score.

Wales veteran Taulupe Faletau put in an impressive display despite falling to defeat

Comeback king

Taulupe Faletau’s display at Twickenham was remarkable. Wales’ veteran No8 had barely played since the Lions tour but he was a force of nature.

Player of the championship

It has to be a Frenchman. Captain Antoine Dupont, Gael Fickou, Baille and Paul Willemse were all good, but No8 Gregory Alldritt was their most influential figure.

Breakthrough stars

Ange Capuozzo (Italy, full back), Rory Darge (Scotland, flanker), Melvyn Jaminet (France, full back), Dewi Lake (Wales, hooker), Dan Sheehan (Ireland, hooker), Freddie Steward (England, full back).

France full-back Melvin Jaminet was one of the breakthrough stars of the tournament

Breakdown star

Most jackal masters are back-rowers, but Italy prop Danilo Fischetti was an eye-catching asset to the Azzurri with his tenacity over the ball and energy.

Strange sound 

Twickenham is not known for its partisan fervour but the place was bouncing when England’s 14 men fought back with wonderful defiance against Ireland. That passion needs to become the norm.

Best atmosphere

A joyous party at the Stade de France as the delirious Gallic crowd acclaimed their team’s first title and Slam since 2010. A vivid, night-time spectacle.