Ireland took a big step towards the Six Nations title and put down a marker ahead of the World Cup later this year as they battled to a thrilling 32-19 win over France in Dublin. A clash between the two best teams in the world, according to the world rankings, was much-anticipated and it led up to that hype in a sensational first 40 minutes.
Ireland went over the tryline three times, the best of those coming through a stunning James Lowe finish out wide, but Damian Penaud’s try and the boot of Thomas Ramos kept France in touch at 22-16 down despite Uini Atonio’s yellow card. The match was right in the balance heading into the final ten minutes, when Garry Ringrose went over in the corner to effectively put the match to bed, sealing the bonus point too as the celebrations began at the Aviva Stadium.
It ends France’s run of 14 straight wins, a streak that included last year’s Grand Slam, and puts Ireland in pole position for the title and to go unbeaten themselves, with matches against Italy, Scotland and England to come.
