Ronan O'Gara: Ramos on a different level as the misery rained down on Ireland in Paris

Ireland had a midfield penalty in the second period and Prendergast didn't get the distance his forwards desperately needed to get their teeth into. It could have been 29-21 and now Ireland could test their pulse.

SPECIAL: France full back Thomas Ramos clears the ball on the try line ahead of Sam Prendergast at Stade de France in Paris. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

IT wasn’t long after four o’clock Thursday when the rain started in Paris. By half time in the Six Nations opener at the Stade de France it was pouring, points for the French and drowning misery for Ireland.

There was a modicum of encouragement for Ireland in the third quarter, though it must be put in context. This one was done.