Ireland edge past France

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Jamie Heaslip, Brian O'Driscoll and Gordon D'Arcy ran in brilliant tries as the Irish registered their first victory over France since March 2003, a sequence spanning seven Tests.

Number eight Imanol Harinordoquy and winger Maxime Medard crossed for France, the former rounding off a brilliant passage of play, while the boot of Lionel Beauxis did the rest.

O'Driscoll's try was particularly pleasing with the Ireland skipper showing the acceleration and finishing ability that seemed to be on the wane in recent seasons.

Lions selectors will certainly have enjoyed the score and a key moment in the match that could yet signal a return to form for the 30-year-old.

Man of the match Heaslip will have done his own chances of making the tour to South Africa no harm with an athletic finish from a similar position that emboldened Declan Kidney's men.

Ronan O'Gara chipped in with 15 points as the Irish, justifying their status as match favourites, landed a crucial early blow in the Six Nations title race.

So often the stumbling block, France were swept aside in a clinical final quarter that saw Ireland display cool heads to claim a precious scalp.

Further satisfaction could be taken from the knowledge this was a dangerous French side that threatened to overhaul their rivals in a breathless encounter that gripped Croke Park.