6 Nations Highlights: Ireland vs France

Ireland ran out 19-9 victors over France in this Six Nations clash at The Aviva Stadium. France dominated the early portions of the game with Lopez scoring two penalties in the opening 20 minutes. Ireland hit back with a converted try before half time when Conor Murray dived over from close range. Ireland came out in the second half and upped their performance level significantly, two penalties and and an exceptional drop goal from the returning Jonny Sexton gave Ireland a 10 point lead. France managed to score another penalty of their own but Ireland immediately hit back with Jackson slotting a penalty with 4 minutes to go. All in all an excellent performance and result for Ireland in difficult conditions, against a strong French team sees them now move to the top of the table with England still to play tomorrow. This defeat effectively rules out the possibility of France winning the championship and they will be bitterly disappointed by that. Ireland will look to carry this high performance level into the upcoming clash with Wales.