Ireland clinch Six Nations after beating France in thriller
Brian O’Driscoll walks away a champion as teammates crown his farewell test in style
Ireland won the Six Nations title on Saturday with a thrilling 22-20 victory over France to give iconic centre Brian O’Driscoll the perfect end to his stellar international career.
Ireland scored three tries – Jonathan Sexton getting two – to France’s two in a pulsating encounter to see them to only their second win in Paris in 42 years. Fittingly, the last time in 2000 O’Driscoll was also in the side and scored a hat-trick.
The emotions are starting to kick in now. It feels great to be a two-time Six Nations winner.
“The emotions are starting to kick in now,” O’Driscoll said. “It feels great to be a two-time Six Nations winner. So many seconds along the years and so many disappointments, it is great to finish my career on a high. When I do hang this jersey up on the hook inside it will be with fond memories.
“I am absolutely delighted. There is a huge Irish contingent here and I am glad we gave them something to shout about.”
Ireland captain Paul O’Connell added: “It is fantastic. We are delighted for Ireland and the people back home and also for Brian O’Driscoll and his family – for him to have a great finish to his career is great for everyone involved.”
France won a penalty in the second minute after Steve Walsh penalised Chris Henry and Maxime Machenaud converted it for 3-0.