This must rank as one of the most disappointing defeats for an Ireland side in the Six Nations championship for a long, long time.

Ireland must start well for so many reasons

Here we are, just short of three weeks since that must win opening game against Wales in the Six Nations and once again Ireland face more of the same — another can’t lose contest.

SO, the only two sides in the Six Nations showing a degree of consistency are at opposite ends of the table.

If anything, Ireland were the far more tentative and suspect-looking outfit in the opening period

The three key issues that will decide Ireland’s fate

In a sport obsessed with size since going professional 18 years ago, it was uplifting at the weekend to see welcome proof that a good big one doesn’t always beat a good little one.

So much for predictions of conservative rugby to open up the Six Nations championship.

Where Cardiff clash will be won and lost

Will cautious Philippe Saint-Andre let multi-talented backline express themselves?