WATCH: Comical George North try helps Wales overcome France 19-10 in dull Six Nations affair

George North’s comical try and a robust defensive display steered Wales to a 19-10 win over France in the Six Nations on Friday in a low-quality match that has been the theme of the competition so far.

An attritional game swung on a decisive three-minute period early in the second half when Wales scored 10 points to push into a 16-3 lead.

That haul included the 46th-minute try from North, who swiped at thin air near the line as he attempted to kick the ball on – only to receive it moments later when retreating France fly-half Jules Plisson inadvertently booted the ball back into the winger’s path.

“George came up to me and said ‘I’m definitely not going to be a footballer,’” Wales captain Sam Warburton said. “There’s been a bit of mickey-taking in the changing room.”

It was the pivotal score, however, helping Wales secure a fifth straight win over the French to stay unbeaten and on course for the Six Nations title. Fly half Dan Biggar kicked the rest of the team’s points, with four penalties and a conversion.

With two victories and a draw, Wales heads to England in two weeks for what could be a virtual title decider. Wales beat its old foe at Twickenham during the Rugby World Cup last year, so won’t be short of confidence.

It was France’s first defeat under recently hired coach Guy Noves, puncturing some of the optimism that had built up after narrow wins against Italy and Ireland to open the tournament. The visitors struggled to show any of the trademark flair that Noves is looking to restore to the national team and their attacks were mostly predictable.

The Welsh defence was outstanding, though, only breached by France captain Guilhem Guirado for a consolation try off a rolling maul in the 79th minute. France was camped on Wales’ try line between the 51st and 63rd minutes but came away with no points in that tense spell.