Getting their act together

EVER since the words ‘golden generation’ began to be ascribed to the core of this Ireland team, one always wondered what heights they’d hit if Munster forwards and Leinster backs fused regularly in Six Nations or World Cup campaigns.

Certainly there have been some sublime performances in the past where the best attributes of both provinces combined to produce stunning displays — against England in Croke Park in 2007 or Australia in Lansdowne Road in 2006 are just two examples. But, on Saturday, against a quality France side, there was ample proof of two provinces blending to sometimes devastating effect.

There was grind, industry and discipline amongst the forwards, and flair and defensive prowess in the backs; patience and confidence also underlined the team’s general performance and, above all else, self-belief was coursing through their veins.