France open women's Six Nations campaign with victory over Ireland

Despite some hesitation, the French never looked in danger of suffering an upset, powered by a solid second-row partnership of Madoussou Fall and Manae Feleu in front of 16,000 spectators in chilly western France.

"I believe that all the teams are raising their level and we saw that today," said France coach David Ortiz.

"The match was clearly a reflection of world rugby, the nations are getting closer. We have to work hard to stay where we want to be."

Pauline Bourdon got the French off the mark early at the Marie-Marvingt stadium sprinting through after three minutes following a powerful maul. 

A Nicole Fowley penalty after a quarter of an hour kept the Irish in touch.

⌚️ Pauline Bourdon-Sansus picked the opportune moment to link up with Marine Menager to score for the home side