Simon Easterby says failures on both sides of the ball cost Ireland against France

Ireland interim head coach Easterby refused to question referee Angus Gardner’s decision to allow Pierre Boudehent’s 45th minute try despite a clear tackle off the ball on Peter O’Mahony. He said they will reflect on the incident and may offer some feedback to Gardner and his team of officials. 

REGRETS: Simon Easterby said Ireland "certainly felt like we didn't take our opportunities" against France. Pic: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Ireland’s heavy Guinness Six Nations defeat by France was due to shortcomings on both sides of the ball, interim head coach Simon Easterby admitted on Saturday.

A 42-27 loss at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium represented Ireland’s first home championship loss in four years, ended their Grand Slam ambitions and has placed their hopes for third title in a row in serious jeopardy after handing the initiative to their conquerors, who will now head into the final round and a Paris appointment with Scotland two points ahead of the defending champions.