BERNARD LAPORTE yesterday insisted there would be no mind games from France in the runup to the World Cup semi-final showdown against England.
The France coach was responding to Clive Woodward's repeated insistence that England, despite looking highly unconvincing against Wales in the quarter-finals, would beat France on Sunday to take their place in the World Cup final.
"We've a very good relationship with Clive Woodward," said Laporte. "We're not into playing mind games. That's not something we would do. We're excited and happy to be looking forward to the semi-final of the World Cup."
Laporte's reasoned and humble response was in stark contrast to the brusque, almost rude approach which characterised Woodward's press conference immediately after Sunday's triumph over Wales.
But then everything about the preparations of France and England appears different.
While England have retreated to their Manly fortress, Australia hide away in the resort of Coffs Harbour and the All Blacks insist on returning to the anonymity of Aussie Rules country in Melbourne, the French have elected to stay among the most laid-back beach bums of Bondi.
"The hotel can't close its doors to everyone else," says Laporte before adding a sentiment which England's obsessive fly-half Jonny Wilkinson would do well to heed. "We will try to guard the players from excited supporters, but it is not good to cut off the players from the outside world. "They can sign autographs but they must also have time for themselves.
"There shouldn't be any excuses or complaints from us, the most difficult thing we have to face is England.
"We have a lot of respect for the English team. They are number one in the world rankings, but France are capable of lifting their level in the World Cup. It should be an open game."
France's composed demeanour does mask one or two problems. Second-row Olivier Brouzet, for instance, has lost his battle with a shoulder injury and will play no further part in the tournament.
Thibault Privat from Montferrand is flying out to join the squad tomorrow. Pepito Elhorga has also been allowed compassionate leave to return to Paris after his father died.
