Johnny Sexton breaks record as Ireland hammer Tonga

Johnny Sexton became Ireland's top points scorer as Andy Farrell’s side secured a bonus-point World Cup win over Tonga in Nantes.

It was a performance that ticked a lot of boxes for the head coach.

Firstly, the side now head to Paris to face world champions South Africa with a maximum return of 10 points from two Pool B games.

Sexton got more minutes under his belt and, save for a head injury to Finlay Bealham, emerged largely unscathed against a tough-tackling Tonga outfit, who boasted four former All Blacks among their number.

A four-try first-half salvo also let Farrell empty his bench early. All eight replacements were on by the 55th minute at Stade de la Beaujoire, with perfect conditions allowing for Ireland to register eight tries.

They will also be particularly pleased that both Robbie Henshaw and Dave Kilcoyne returned after hamstring issues and showed no ill effects.

The tries came in good order and it’s a second ruthless display in a row, following last weekend’s rout of Romania.

The heavy lifting was done in the opening period with tries from Tadhg Beirne, Caelan Doris, Mack Hansen and Sexton, while James Lowe, Rob Herring and the outstanding Bundee Aki (2) crossed in the second half.

All eyes turn now to the Stade de France in seven days’ time and the showdown with the Springboks, who take on Romania in Bordeaux tomorrow afternoon.

It's not that Ireland were desperate to find their rhythm, but Farrell had selected an almost full-strength side and wanted to see them hum.

But the opening quarter was patchy at best. Ireland had more of the play but the sides were still level after 20 minutes.

Tonga conceded three early penalties, first allowing Ireland to work position before Augustine Pulu went off his feet at the