They showed fantastic discipline and were very unfortunate not to go into half-time in the lead, although If Roland De Marigny had been given kicking duties earlier, they may well have done.

I was really disappointed with the manner in which Ireland started, which was particularly poor, but I must give a lot of credit to Italy because they didn't make any mistakes and totally outplayed us in the opening exchanges.

Ireland just didn't get hold of the ball, but I don't think there was any complacency because they knew exactly what to expect. But it's one thing knowing what your opponent is going to do and another thing stopping it.

Although there is no excuse for the start, Ireland may have struggled to get used to the type of ball they use in Italy, which is totally different to rugby balls used elsewhere, having a totally different grip.

If you were take this result in isolation, you would say Ireland would not really have a chance of the championship now but, after the performances and results of the other teams, they're still right in there.

However, I think it's going to be hard now because it looks like we've got two really big injuries in the centre with Brian O'Driscoll and Gordon D'Arcy suffering hamstring problems. A lot could depend on if they're fit to face Scotland this week.

The Scots were always going to be tough opponents, but if they perform in the same fashion as they did against France, it will put some real pressure on Ireland. They kept France out of the game and if they can do that again it will certainly make it a lot tougher.

A lot of people have been surprised that the opening games have been so tight but I'm not surprised at all as the expectation out there now is so big that very little is being given away. Teams are still trying things but have decided to play with a bit of discipline as well - it'll be interesting to see if the pattern continues in the coming weeks.