The one that got away

As things transpired, the postponement of the Six Nations meeting of France and Ireland for three weeks was rendered inconsequential.

When they eventually got it on, we witnessed an enthralling if inconclusive 80 odd minutes, a draw in this fixture for the first time since 1985.

After such an absorbing contest which had everything in terms of drama, unrelenting physicality and unbridled commitment, the players are left with a horrible empty feeling with little to show for their efforts. I played in that game 27 years ago and know exactly how they feel. In time they will come to appreciate they did achieve something of value yesterday. Just how they will be able to get themselves up for another dockyard brawl against Scotland in five days remains to be seen and will certainly challenge the Irish management.