France and Ireland do battle in a Six Nations match-up that promises to be a well-contested affair between two teams looking to rediscover their rich rugby pedigree. Join The Roar for live scores from 1:25am (AEDT).
Ireland have held the wood over the French in recent encounters, staying undefeated in their past five matches against Guy Noves’ men.
Their most recent encounter occurred last year at the Rugby World Cup where Ireland secured a convincing 24-9 victory over the French in a very physical encounter during the group stages.
Despite being at home, it remains to be seen if France is capable of ending their poor recent record against the Irish. Les Bleus were once again unconvincing in their opening win against Italy last week and will need to improve tenfold if they hope to maintain their perfect record in the Six Nations.
Ireland themselves have plenty of improving to do after giving up a 13-0 lead against Wales en route to a draw. Wales were actually in the lead late in the contest but a Jonathon Sexton penalty allowed Ireland to secure a share of the points.
Despite their inconsistent effort against Italy, France should be expected to improve today in front of a home crowd that will demand it. One of the key players to look out for will be French winger Virimi Vakatawa who scored a blistering try against Italy last week and will prove a handful for opposite winger Andrew Trimble today if he is allowed space to roam.
The battle at the breakdown between young French star Yacouba Camara and established Irish workhorse Sean O’Brien will also be key to deciding which team emerges on top.
In arguably the biggest fixture of the weekend, both teams should be expected to give their all in front of a big crowd. Ireland is the team in better form but France at home may just be too strong.
France to win by 5.
Join The Roar for live scores as France host Ireland from 1:25am (AEDT) on Sunday morning.
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He was born 1905, 1904 or 1908 according to various reports, in Wairoa, Hawkes Bay, and is remembered as one of the great Māori players.
