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Ireland lost 35-27 tonight in Paris. France played wonderful rugby in streaks, but Ireland shot themselves in the foot again and again. The second half was extremely frustrating from Ireland’s perspective, as penalties, set pieces and cheeky plays added up just as France looked vulnerable.
Andy Farrell cleared his bench in the second half, but it was clear that his captain, Johnny Sexton, was not happy about being removed from the field of play. Sexton appeared furious about being retired in the 69th minute.
Johnny Sexton is not at all happy that he was taken to Paris.#ART | #GuinnessSixNations | #VMTVRugby pic.twitter.com/gNb5l3iAQ2
– Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) October 31, 2020
Sexton shook his head several times, glanced at the marker, and shook his head again. A minute later, Vakatawa scored France’s fifth try to seal the victory.
Overall it was a frustrating night for the captain of Ireland. Sexton was flying in the first 20 minutes – his kick in the first half could have earned Ireland a penalty try. But his decision to kick to the corner just before halftime was critical to the outcome of the match. France repelled Ireland from their lineout and did not look back. A converted penalty would have left Ireland just one point clear before the break. It was a great decision considering Ireland only needed a seven point win.
In the post-match interview, Sexton said that Ireland were not good enough to exploit French weaknesses in defense tonight. He called the decision to try before the break as “a brave decision.”
SEE ALSO: Irish Player Ratings on a Disappointing Night in Paris
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