D'Arcy: We need to take our chances against France

Gordon D’Arcy has said Ireland need to make France struggle in their own half if they want to have any chance of beating them in Paris next Saturday.

The Leinster man said that they can't repeat their unconvincing display against Italy if they want to retain their RBS 6 Nations title.

D'Arcy said: "When we get France into their quarter of the field, we can't let them out cheaply."

The Ireland centre emphasised that they would have to put pressure on the French kickers and not give away penalties when they do get into the home team's half.

"We have to keep pressure on them in their half and basically try and frustrate them."

The hope would be that the frustration would transfer to the home crowd, but D'Arcy isn't worried about playing in front of the French spectators.

He said: "It's only as intimidating as you let it be. There can be all the singing in the crowd, all I have to worry about is catching the ball and making my tackles."