Record must stay second to none

DESPITE the fact that Ireland are guaranteed a tilt at a second consecutive Triple Crown when they meet Wales in Cardiff, defeat to France on Saturday would leave a hollow feel to the season.

It is a measure of how far Ireland have progressed that potential Triple Crown success portrays a sense of underachievement.

To date in the Six Nations, everything has gone to plan. From the outset of the tournament, I have always felt the biggest obstacle to Ireland achieving a cherished Grand Slam lay with the French. Despite their indifferent form in the championship, nothing has changed that assertion.