Ireland rule out on-field retribution if Johnny Sexton is targeted again

One can imagine that Johnny Sexton's name cropped up during England's preparations for Saturday's game against Ireland.

In Ireland's opener, Wales did not go after Sexton until midway through the second half. The out-half was on par with CJ Stander for his side's best player. Six days later and France went hunting. They were successful in making three big, borderline legal hits on him and his game suffered accordingly. England will be on Sexton's case this weekend. It is a fact of life that Ireland are preparing for. One of the most interesting comments made by Devin Toner, after the 10-9 loss to France, was about how Ireland are not a dirty team. They don't go seeking revenge. However, he added:

"Sure everything is on TV these days."

The temptation may be there but Ireland are un-clenching their fists, sighing and relenting. Leaving it to the men in charge. Simon Easterby took up the theme at Tuesday's print media press briefing. He told reporters:

"We can't do too much about what happens off the ball, that's up to the officials to make sure they pick up... Johnny plays hard and that's the way he will continue to play the game," said Easterby.