Ireland are firmly in control of matters at half-time but it was almost a hell of a lot better.
Well on their way to a bonus point following tries from Tommy Bowe and Keith Earls, Joe Schmidt’s men almost opened their account with the most audacious of efforts.
It was a matter of inches.
With the score at 3-3, Ireland broke from their own half. Keith Earls spinning out of a tackle before off-loading to Richardt Strauss, who passed to Simon Zebo on the left wing.
The Munster winger hared away before playing a deft little grubber up the line for himself, which he collected before touching down in the corner. A thing of beauty.
Unfortunately the pesky TMO spotted the Corkman’s foot was in touch when he collected his own kick. Inches away from perfection.
It did not tarnish a great opening 40 minutes for Zebo, who sprayed an amazing pass out left to put his Munster team-mate Keith Earls in for a try.
While the first try went to Tommy Bowe, the Ulster winger’s skilful finish silencing some of his doubters.
Two tries scored, two more needed. Forty important minutes left to play, with Ireland leading 18-3.
