Why Ireland must target 'finer margins' after France defeat

Ireland headed to Clermont with hopes of a historic first win on French soil, and with one eye on revenge. France had eight straight wins over Ireland, who were closing the gap even if their last meeting led to a narrow World Cup quarter-final exit. The Irish players had spoken beforehand about owing France one for that defeat, and the belief that is so often kept within a group was on full display.

However, at the end of it all, they left France empty-handed, beaten 26-7 as they were made to pay for not taking their chances. "I'm really proud of the girls. We showed what we are capable of and what we are trying to do.

It's just fine margins out there," Ireland captain Erin King said. "We fired shots and we are so capable. We put pressure on France and we could see it in that first half especially.

"We've showed that we can compete with the top four in the world, so it's about getting it over that line. " After the big talk in the build-up, Ireland blew France away in the opening 40 minutes but, largely, were left unrewarded for their efforts. Cliodhna Moloney-MacDonald crossed for Ireland but had two efforts chalked off, while Brittany Hogan and Fiona Tuite were also denied first-half scores.