Last year’s Grand Slam winner’s slumped to an eighth successive defeat when Ireland left the Millennium Stadium with a 30-22 victory last weekend.

But any suggestion Wales would be battling to avoid the wooden spoon were ended in style as 11 points from Halfpenny’s boot and a George North try stunned France.

And the relief was evident for all to see as Halfpenny did his best to outline what the win meant to the players.

“Words can’t explain how much this means. What a fantastic feeling. The boys played incredibly well,” said Halfpenny.

“We knew it was going to be tough coming here but at times we dug deep and stuck together. It’s been a long time coming this win.

“We were outstanding in defence and just wouldn’t give in. We were fighting to the end and when we had that chance we took it. That’s what international rugby is about – taking your chances and fine margins.

“We’ve come out on the wrong side in a lot of those tight games and suffered narrow defeats so to win is amazing.

“The win means everything. We’re doing it for all the fans here and everyone back home.”