France leads Ireland 22-0 at half-time

France has scored three times to lead Ireland 22-0 at half-time.

The tries came from Bielle-Biarrey, Jalibert and Ollivon. The only surprise may be that no one else got in on the party. It's hard to think of a single positive for Andy Farrell and his brains trust to cling to as they regroup in the changing rooms. It's 22-0 and Ireland are lucky to be nil.

38mins: That third was a wonderful team try for the hosts who have played some spellbinding stuff in a half that has gone by in a blur of brilliant blue. Yet the green-tinted lenses have found little positive to focus on. Bielle-Biarrey was threatening again before Osborne snuffed it out. Halftime can't come quickly enough for Farrell.

34mins: TRY FRANCE — Mickael Guillard had spent the better part of a half hour barrelling into Irishmen with huge carries. Now he turns provider to his fellow second rower Charles Ollivon who powers over, Ireland's defence in shambles. The two locks looked more like backs with the hands and lines. For Ireland, this is a Thursday night horror show. France are threatening to have the bonus wrapped up before the break.

30mins: The number that matters most is, of course, on the scoreboard. It already feels like the next score needs to be Ireland's. But there are other ugly numbers swirling in the Stade. How about this one: Ireland have missed 19 tackles in less than a half hour. Ouch.

27mins: PENALTY FRANCE — Joe McCarthy, one of many Irish carriers who has got his hands on precious little ball in this opening half hour, gives away a frankly brainless penalty but that's what pressure can do and Ireland have been under a mountain of it. Ramos extends the lead.

24mins: Here's that opening try from Bielle-Biarrey that got us all started. Last