Ireland confirmed their status as the number one side in the world for another week with a dominant 32 – 19 win over France in Dublin.
Outscoring their visitors four tries to one despite being short a number of key players, Andy Farrell’s side showed their full array of skills.
Heading into the clash, there were questions about Ireland’s ability to handle the physicality of Les Bleus.
Missing the world-class front row duo of Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong, Ireland to a man fronted up to the giant French ball carriers.
Possessing a number of giants, the French brought everything they had to the table.
Leading the charge for big men was the giant 150kg prop Uini Antonio who was his typical sublime self in the losing cause.
Whilst he was by and large a positive contributor, he may well be feeling lucky that he avoided a red card.
Unloading a giant shot on Ireland Hooker Rob Herring, Antonio caught his front-row rival awkwardly.
Hitting upright, Antonio left referee Wayne Barnes with no choice but to show a yellow card.
Despite being sent to the bin for ten minutes many felt the La Rochelle escaped lightly given that Herring left the pitch following a head injury assessment.
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