Andy Farrell's men scored a brilliant try off a goal-line drop-out against France:
Hugo Keenan’s brilliant opening try demonstrated that Andy Farrell’s team were diligently-prepared and laser-focused. It wasn’t all plain sailing from that point but Ireland deservedly earned a bonus-point 32-19 win over France yesterday.
So while Ireland were clearly inspired by the Wallabies last year, it is fitting that the play has its origins in the Schmidt era of Irish rugby. It means a lightning-quick recycle for Ireland and therefore no time for the French to get a read on the play. Tighthead prop Finlay Bealham [red below] is the fulcrum around whom the play operates, while hooker Rob Herring [blue] runs a short line just outside Bealham.
Atonio is still getting off the ground after being beaten by Doris, so France need to be sharp with one fewer defender available close to the ruck. Ireland want to drag the first French defender on this side, Paul Willemse [orange above], as wide from the ruck as possible. Going back to present day, Ireland’s strike is slick as Murray loops around Bealham, who shows lovely sleight of hand to dummy a pop back to Murray before flicking the ball inside to the late-arriving Keenan.In France’s minds, Bealham is a carrying threat off Murray here too, which further lures Willemse into breaking away from the ruck.
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