It is a brave man who predicts the outcome of Saturdays encounter at Lansdowne Road as the protagonists are almost impossible to separate.

France have arguably the more talented side while doubts exist over their temperament. But if the team which looked so impressive in the first half against Wales turns up then Ireland could be in trouble.

But if the defending champions, who have been plagued by inconsistency, repeat the lack of imagination they showed earlier in the tournament, Brian ODriscoll and co should head to Cardiff with the Grand Slam still on.

Ireland coach O'Sullivan even joked he would settle for a result impossible under rugby's scoring system.

He said: I would take 1-0 against France - as long as we win, thats the important thing. Once weve done that we can asses the aesthetic value of the performance.

You win games anyway you can. Sometimes you have to show a bit of dog and come from behind - thats what we did against Argentina in the Autumn and tomorrow is going to be like that.

If we win then it will be by one score or less because France are a very good side.
Theyve won two Grand Slams in three years. It took Englands World Cup winning team five years to land one.

Thats not happened by accident. They are one hell of a side, no matter which players they pick.

I would take a win by one score now. If its more than that I would be surprised.