Ireland head coach Andy Farrell rued a dismal first-half display after France launched their Guinness Six Nations title defence by romping to a 36-14 bonus-point victory. Farrell’s underdogs were outclassed on a punishing evening in Paris and trailed 22-0 at the end of a one-sided opening period following tries from Louis Bielle-Biarrey, Matthieu Jalibert and Charles Ollivon. Bielle-Biarrey’s second score of the evening stretched the scoreboard further before Ireland eventually hit back thanks to quickfire consolations from replacements Nick Timoney and Michael Milne. Despite the positive impact of the Irish bench, reigning champions France – with returning captain Antoine Dupont pulling the strings – completed a statement success at the end through wing Theo Attissogbe.

Source: Irish Independent February 06, 2026 15:26 UTC