Ireland’s Round Four victory over France has given them a chance of retaining their Guinness Six Nations crown on the final weekend of the Championship.
Rory Best, on what could well be his last home appearance in the Guinness Six Nations after announcing he is likely to retire after the World Cup, got the first try just three minutes in before Johnny Sexton and Jack Conan both crossed in quick succession to open up a 19-0 advantage on Sunday.
A late surge from France saw them run in two tries in the final few minutes but Keith Earls’ score just before the hour mark had already put the game beyond doubt as Ireland ran out 26-14 winners.
Joe Schmidt’s side will now go to Wales for the final fixture of the Championship trailing the table-toppers by two points.
A win would see them leapfrog Warren Gatland’s men but their title hopes are not entirely in their own hands as victory for England over Scotland would likely see Eddie Jones’ men crowned champions, even if Ireland win.
And Super Saturday begins as Italy host France at the Stadio Olimpico, where the Azzurri will have one more chance to get a win on the board before the Championship comes to a close.
All three games will be broadcast live on Virgin Media One or alternatively, you can also follow the action on www.guinnesssixnations.com with our live matchday blogs via the match centre.
Guinness Six Nations Round Five
Saturday
Italy France – live on Virgin Media One from 11.30am
Wales v Ireland – live on Virgin Media One from 2.30pm
England v Scotland – live on Virgin Media One from 4.45pm
