Grand Slam champions Ireland made a strong statement with a resounding 38-17 victory over France in Marseille in their Six Nations opening match.
In a clash between the previous two Six Nations champions, a full house witnessed tries from Jamison Gibson-Park, Tadhg Beirne, Calvin Nash, and Dan Sheehan, propelling Ireland to a win with full points.
France’s discipline issues cost them dearly as Paul Willemse received a red card for two yellow cards in the first half. Ireland’s dominance, however, was not merely due to their numerical advantage; they executed the game plan that had taken them to the top of the world rankings last year, seizing opportunities against the French defense.
Despite being a man down, Les Bleus continued to fight, scoring through Damian Penaud and Paul Gabrillagues. However, they made too many errors against an Irish team that was quick to capitalize.
Ireland, convincingly coming out on top, fittingly scored the final try. As with Sheehan earlier, their rolling maul enabled Ronan Kelleher to add the fifth and final try, marking a record victory over Les Bleus in France. This match featured two teams who experienced significant disappointment in the World Cup, both suffering heart-breaking defeats in the quarter-finals.
Ireland, now without their retired captain Johnny Sexton, seems to have better absorbed that disappointment. In contrast, France, missing their captain Antoine Dupont – who is currently committed to Sevens in pursuit of an Olympic medal this summer – struggled to find their rhythm.
THE SIX NATIONS HAS BEGUN IN EARNEST.
