Progress obvious but French loss leaves Ireland with regrets

A concern for Ireland starting this tournament against such strong opposition was the facile nature of the Celtic Challenge tournament that these players experienced when playing for the Wolfhounds and Clovers against Welsh and Scottish opposition.

DISAPPOINTING LOSS: Ireland got within two points of France in the second half but errors cost Ireland. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Guinness Women's Six Nations: Ireland 15 France 27

Ireland were left to rue a slow start and a fading finish as they opened their Six Nations campaign with a defeat to France that still confirmed the impression of a side that is travelling in the right direction.