Ireland’s long wait for a Six Nations victory on French soil goes on, with Andy Farrell’s side suffering a comprehensive opening-round defeat in Paris last night.
France ran out 36–14 winners at the Stade de France, extending Ireland’s winless run in France that stretches back to 2018. The hosts set the tone early and were firmly in control by half-time, racing into a 22-nil lead as Ireland struggled to gain a foothold in the contest.
Ireland showed more fight after the break, with tries from Nick Timoney and Michael Milne providing some consolation, but the damage had already been done against a sharp and physical French outfit.
Speaking after the match, head coach Andy Farrell admitted his side were second best, particularly in the opening half where France dominated the key battles.
“You make your own luck in this game and you make your own luck by being ahead of the game, in most things probably without the ball, and I thought we certainly lost that battle in the first half,” Farrell said.
Ireland will now look to regroup ahead of their next Six Nations outing, with Italy visiting the Aviva Stadium on Saturday week. Farrell’s side will be keen to bounce back quickly and build momentum as the championship continues.
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