The Red Rose romped to glory in 2011 winning all five matches but their 20-9 triumph over Ireland on Friday, with tries from Marland Yarde, Dan Robson and Anthony Watson, secured their second straight title on points difference.

France and Ireland both matched England’s record of four wins and a defeat this time around, but Hunter’s side’s superiority in victories over Scotland, Wales and Italy paid dividends.

Defeat against Les Bleuets put the title in the balance but Friday’s win at Adams Park sealed their destiny and Hunter praised his players for stepping up with the perfect response.

“It was disappointing in France but then we went back and had a look at what we were doing,” said Hunter.

“The big thing was that the lads came away convinced they were doing the right thing. They just had to do it better.

“They did that against Ireland, they were more accurate. They still left a few chances on the pitch but overall we performed pretty well.

“It’s been a difficult tournament difficult, playing three away games. On one hand you lose the freshness but, on the other, you play a lot of games in a short period and it’s good to get the players used to that pressure.”