Top 3 performers - Ireland vs France

Conor Murray

The Irish scrum-half was outstanding as usual today. He has become an integral cog in Joe Schmidt’s Ireland machine. The Munster man was an ever present threat around each ruck, making a number of breaks and going over for the only try of the game. The Limerick man wasn’t afraid to get involved in the rough and tumble of the game either as he made some expert chop tackles in defence when Ireland were camped on their own try-line. Again Murray impressed with his kicking game, taking the heat off of Johnny Sexton with a number of deft touches in behind the French defence. He thoroughly deserved the MOTM award for his day’s work. The number nine is surely in Warren Gatland’s plans for the Lions tour after his string of world class performances in recent months.

Johnny Sexton

A magnificent performance from the Irish general on his return from injury today. He showed why he is considered world class by so many in rugby circles today, proving all of the doubters wrong with his impressive display. Many called for young Paddy Jackson to retain his place in the starting XV this weekend but Joe Schmidt again pulled a tactical masterclass by putting his maestro straight in to start in the ten shirt. The Leinster out-half was targeted by the French, as was expected, but he didn’t shirk any responsibility when on the ball, attacking the French defence with intent at every opportunity. He kicked superbly at goal and had a success rate of 100% from the tee. He also slotted a beautiful drop-goal between the posts, which was reminiscent of days of old, when his former teammate and coach, O’Gara, was in the fray. A complete performance by the Dublin native.

Scott Spedding

Spedding was the stand out performer in an overall disappointing team performance by France today. His kicking was superb, he managed the game excellently from deep, regularly pinning Ireland back inside their own half with accurate touch kicking. He was also a menace on the counter attack with his combination of beautiful footwork and powerful direct running. Despite being bitterly disappointed with the result for his side today, Spedding can take solace in the knowledge that he played exceptionally well.