IRELAND CLAIMED THEIR second win of this year’s Six Nations with a 19 – 9 victory over France. You’ll find the full match report here. Here’s how we graded Joe Schmidt’s men on a sliding scale of 1 -10.
Rob Kearney: 5
Stepped badly by Serin early on and, with France opting not to kick much ball away, was afforded very few chances to contribute in attack. Forced off after 50 minutes through injury.
Keith Earls: 7
Always bright with the ball in hand and provided one of the few counter-attacking sparks. Was unfortunate the bounce evaded him when chasing a loose Sexton kick towards the corner in the first half.
Garry Ringrose: 8
Source: Dan Sheridan/INPHO
Showed up eager for work even when the collective unit was struggling. 13 first-half carries helped Ireland steady the ship and pile pressure on Les Bleus, but it was his clear-out work (albeit aided by Sean O’Brien) which really made the difference for Ireland as it paved the way for Conor Murray’s try.
Robbie Henshaw: 7
Trojan work-rate from the centre, providing an excellent foil for Ringrose while disrupting French attacks with his relentless energy.
Simon Zebo: 7
A mix of the sublime and ridiculous from Zebo, but nothing wrong with a bit of added excitement. Committed a horrendous error when trying to cover a kick to his own try-line that left his side under pressure. Seemed to keep finding team-mates in his way when attacking late in first half, but he always lights up at fullback and was unfortunate his excellent handling in attack didn’t result in a try.
Jonathan Sexton: 7
No other out-half would have dared quick-tap that kickable first-half, but Sexton has the license and the credit in the Schmidt bank to try (and fail) such moves without fear.
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Source: Dan Sheridan/INPHO
His return from injury began as slowly as the team around him, but the trademark wraps were executed with more intent by supporting players when he is at the helm. His drop-goal and ball-striking in general was sublime. Generally chose the right passing options and his running threat drew more French defenders to free up space for men outside him.
Conor Murray: 9
Another masterclass. Visibly injected pace into the game after Ireland emerged from their incredibly sluggish opening 20 minutes. And his team-mates followed that lead to build pressure and create his opportunity. His influence grows with his confidence.
Jack McGrath: 7
Under severe pressure in early scrums, but continued to make his presence felt through his tackle count and his work in the maul.