Matt Dawson believes England were 'lucky' that France were unable to make the most of their opportunities after Steve Borthwick's side won 26-25 in the Six Nations on Saturday night.
England had gone into the clash on a low after losing to Ireland last time out.
But they were outstanding at Twcikenham, with Elliot Daly's late try and Fin Smith's conversion enough to secure victory.
England, in the first half, struggled at times.
Matt Dawson believes England were 'lucky' that France were unable to make the most of their opportunities after Steve Borthwick's side won 26-25 in the Six Nations on Saturday night
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Yet they were jubilant at the end of the match, with Fin's conversion sparking wild celebrations around Twickenham.
Dawson was delighted to see England win. However, the rugby legend also feels Borthwick's men were 'lucky' that France didn't kill them off when they had the chance.
"England needed it. They needed the big win. Nobody saw this coming," he said on BBC Radio 5 Live.
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"We have got to be honest, that first half England were lucky as France had so many opportunities, but we have been to too many of these games.
"You have got to make the most of your opportunities and England did that.
"England looked threatening, they looked dangerous. My goodness, did they have to work for it."
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Another former England star, Chris Ashton, also praised Borthwick's side and Smith in particular.
He stated: "There is a lot of pressure on Steve Borthwick.
"The team have managed to get the job done. He will be so pleased.
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"Fin Smith was influential and grew into the game. He had a shaky start, but he did it and he's managed to take over the kicking role."
For England, the onus will now be on building on this victory.
They have blown hot and cold over the past 18 months or so, winning just six of their past 14 Tests.
England star Fin Smith made a big impact against France as the Six Nations exploded into life
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But victory, over the French, under the lights at Twickenham, will give the players renewed hope and optimism as they look to win the Six Nations this year.
England will be hoping to secure another victory when they do battle with Scotland on February 22 (4.45pm).
As for France, they'll be aiming to bounce back when they lock horns with Italy on February 23 (3pm).
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