Charles Ollivon speaks on victory against Italy

The French flared as they crushed the Italians 50-10 in Rome on Saturday in a performance which made it clear that Les Blues will once again be strong title contenders.

The men in blue ran in seven tries against the Azzurri who managed only one late in the game.

“I will retain above all the word efficiency,” said French captain Charles Ollivon. “It was a tough and tough match up front, as we suspected. We weren’t surprised on that,” Ollivon said in the post-match press conference.

“The Italians were brave, they went through a lot of phases in the first half. We were able to stay in the game and get out of complicated situations.

“We know that at this level it is not possible to relax for five or ten minutes. We prepared very well in Nice and we wanted to start the Championship. We really studied all the details in depth, we were able to put them into practice.”

Special mention must be made of scrumhalf Antoine Dupont who exuded pure class in the execution of all of his duties.

“As usual, he [Dupont] put in a great performance. We need him to conduct the game, in the conclusions of actions,” added Ollivon. “He makes his qualities speak, it no longer surprises anyone. It’s very good for him and especially very good for the team.

“We want even more. We know that a big game awaits us next weekend. We need to put in a big performance.

“It will be different in Ireland. It’s up to us to be well focused, to work well, to go further in all sectors. This match is going to be crucial.”