WATCH: Paulie: ‘I wish we put on a better performance’ for 'amazing' fans

It might not have been as easy as we would have liked, but Ireland have done it.

Joe Schmidt's men have guaranteed themselves a quarter-final place and face France next week knowing a win would mean they top the group.

Captain Paul O’Connell was interviewed moments after the final whistle

“Probably a disappointing performance, very inaccurate,” he said honestly.

“The crowd were amazing, I wish we put on a better performance for them.”

“Hopefully we can do it next week.”

The Irish Examiner's Rugby Correspondent Simon Lewis gives his views on Ireland after their RWC clash with Italy at the Olympic Stadium.

Video by Dan Linehan.