Ireland received two out of two. A week after the card inflicted against Romania (82-8) for their first match in this World Cup, the XV of Clover largely won with the offensive bonus at Beaujoire in Nantes against Tonga (59-16 ). A success which allows Jonathan Sexton’s men – the new top point scorer in the history of the Irish selection – to generate confidence, before facing South Africa next Saturday at the Stade de France (9 p.m.).
Tongans and Irish made numerous mistakes at the start of the match before Johnny Sexton punished the indiscipline of the Pacific warriors (7th). The Ikale Tahi scorer – nickname given to the Tongan selection – reduced the score before Beirne (21st) and Doris (27th) each scored in turn. Six minutes later, winger Hansen outplayed the entire Tongan defense to set up the third Irish try before veteran and captain Johnny Sexton scored the offensive bonus try (38th). After long minutes in front of the XV du Trèfle line, the teammates of Pita Ahki, player from Stade Toulousain, managed to reduce the score before half-time thanks to Vaea Fifita.
In the second half, the Irish tried to push the men of the Pacific. Ringrose first let the leather escape in the in-goal (46th). Six minutes later, Rob Herring thought of flattening but his attempt was refused. But Andy Farrell’s men then took advantage of Tongan indiscipline to score another try by James Lowe (59th), after a good ball carried. Bundee Aki also had his try (63rd) then scored twice a few minutes later. Rob Herring washed away the disappointment of his disallowed try a few minutes before, to seal the fate of the match with another try on the gong. Crucial meeting next Saturday (9 p.m.) for Johnny Sexton’s teammates, against the reigning South African champions.
