The level of expectation may have had an effect but I spoke to a couple of the lads before the match and they were saying all the right things.

However, when they got around to it, it just didnt happen. We didnt play with any huge urgency and France performed far better against us than they did against Wales - thats easily the best theyve played in the championship.

We got totally bullied in the forwards, we were under a lot of pressure in the scrum and France mauled so brilliantly. We seemed to get ourselves exposed too easily at times as well.

When Brian ODriscoll scored with five minutes remaining it looked as if we might steal it, but France were worthy winners.

Defeat leaves Ireland in a difficult position as they set out to win the Grand Slam - which is exactly the right attitude - but you are always vulnerable when you get your dreams shattered like that.

You dont get over it but youve got to get on with the next game regardless. But with the points difference, I think the championship is over.

We would have to win by 13 points in Cardiff and Ireland havent played well enough in the tournament to do that.

If Wales play like they did against Scotland and Ireland play like they did against France, Wales will win the game.

Wales level of confidence is incredible at the moment. I thought they were brilliant against Scotland and some of their passing out of the tackle was incredible - a notch up from their display in France.

The pressure is on them now and off Ireland, and we need to up our forward performance if we are to retain the Triple Crown.

We need to play to our strengths which is to get the ball to the back line and using it well, but it doesnt mean throwing it around like Wales.

If we do win the match, however, it could let in France, who now have an outside chance of retaining the title as they are capable of putting 50 points on Italy.