The Irish out scored the visitors by 3 tries to 1, but a boot of perfection from scrum half Morgan Parra kept France in the match throughout. The game that the Irish produced last week against a good Italian side was chalk and cheese in comparison with this effort, the boys in green fought as we know they can especially up front, giving absolutely nothing away and continually on the fringe of contravening the rules, but then they have always played this way so why change!!

 

The cutting edge that the French were hoping to show did not happen and far too many mistakes were made, but their discipline, especially in the second half was exemplary.

 

Without any doubts, to go to Ireland and win is always an achievement so compliments must be given to the French, who showed bucket loads of courage especially in defence, but they now have 2 weeks to put together something very special as the trip to Twickenham in a fortnight will not be at all easy. The English disposed of the Italians in no uncertain terms in their Fortress Twickenham by an avalanche score of England 59 Italy 13.

 

This match could well be the final before the final, as both teams are unbeaten in this years 6 Nations Championship.

 

 

Steve Whittell.