Ireland …………28
France…………..34
FRANCE recorded their fourth-straight win against Ireland to secure second place in the table, with a well-executed try for Louis Bielle-Barrey proving to be difference.
An all-action first-half began with an early yellow card for France No.8 Kylian Tixeront for a no-arms tackle on Conor McKee.
And despite being a man down they took the lead via the boot of Nolann Le Garrec.
It was Ireland who scored the first try, however, as Jamie Osborne evaded the challenge of Leo Barre to break through, but France hit back to punish a loose pass from Ireland.
Bielle-Barrey ran the length of the pitch before being brought down but Thibault Debaes was able to collect and score.
A lineout-maul finished by flanker Pierre Bochaton put France ahead 17-7, but Nathan Doak clawed three points back with a penalty before a deft chip from Osborne sent Shane Jennings into French territory, where captain Alex Kendellen powered underneath the posts.
Prop Paul Mallez ensured France took a lead into half-time following Matthias Haddad’s break. Then a carry from Teo Bordenave edged France closer for Mallez to dodge the post on his way over.
Though Doak slotted two penalties either side of the break, Debaes was able to return the favour to Bielle- Barrey with a cross-field kick into the hands of the France winger, who span his way over the line.
Instrumental throughout the tournament, Ireland No.8 Kendellen powered past a fatigued Thomas Ployet in the final act.
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