All the favorites on the mat, except the Blues.
In the aftermath of the English's surprise defeat at Twickenham against Scotland, Ireland lost (21-16) to Wales this Sunday, one week away from receiving the XV of France for the next day of the Tournament of Six Nations (Sunday February 14, 4 p.m.).
A capital trip for the Blues, who have not won in Dublin since 2011, on the lawn of an experienced team, but who returns physically marked by their setback in Cardiff, conceded after having evolved at fourteen for more than three-quarters Match.
Sexton, released after a shock, uncertain against France
Deprived of his third row Peter O'Mahony, sent off for a nasty move in a ruck, the XV of Clover had the merit of never letting go, largely dominating the Welsh in a first period completed on a 13-6 in their favor.
But, with wear and tear, the XV du Leek, very disappointing in 2020, managed to get past and finally win.
But beyond this defeat, Ireland may have lost one of their executives for next week.
Opener Jonathan Sexton, 35, had to leave his partners ten minutes from time after a shock that forced him to follow concussion protocol.
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A significant loss for the XV of Clover, especially as his replacement Billy Burns has completely passed through.
While his team had just obtained a last-chance penalty in stoppage time, the player misjudged his kick, missing the touch and one last ammunition to win.
Ireland is already under pressure.
To the Blues to push it in a week.