Flood scored 16 points, while Geraghty slotted a penalty and conversion and created the game's defining try for centre Mike Tindall as England triumphed 26-18 and kept alive their RBS 6 Nations title hopes.

Catt, the oldest back to skipper England, said: 'It was a great to play in a team with so much enthusiasm.

'It is not about me, it is about England, and we have got the young guys coming through. It is great to see the buzz about them - David Strettle as well - and they are so confident with their ability.'

Flood, replacement for an injured Jonny Wilkinson, displayed a maturity beyond his 21 years, which was matched by 20-year-old Geraghty when he replaced the Newcastle fly-half midway through the second period.

For Catt though, making his first Six Nations start since England crushed France at Twickenham in the 2001 tournament, the game represented a personal triumph.

To play on the front foot makes a world of difference,' he added, in tribute to a superb performance from England's pack.

It is a very good day for English rugby. To come away with a win against a very good French side is massive.

As captain, I found the whole week very emotional. It was mentally draining, and I can understand how someone like Martin Corry (former England captain) has felt in the past.

The guys responded exceptionally well. I wanted us to play the game the way we had trained, and we got the ball on the front foot, which is a great compliment to the forwards.'

Flood added: "The atmosphere was fantastic. Playing alongside Mike Catt was superb - his communication and decision-making skills are awesome.

"In terms of my try, I found myself with the ball in my hand, so I just got my head down. I thought about passing to Jason Robinson, but I had just enough to get there."

Harlequins wing Strettle was key to England's attacking threat, following up his try-scoring debut in Dublin with another top-notch display.

Strettle said: "I just wanted to keep my head down and try my hardest. We did what we had to do, and it was a very pleasing result.

"You enjoy days like this one, but I also thought the forwards were brilliant. They really stood up to the task."

Wasps openside flanker Tom Rees took man-of-the-match honours following a blistering display on his first start in England's number seven jersey.