SIMON EASTERBY might not have seen France’s steamrolling of his side coming. But he has an idea of what might be in store this weekend. Ireland’s 42-27 defeat to Les Bleus on Saturday has left

This week’s dawn brings with it an unfamiliar and unwelcome reality for some of Simon Easterby’s Ireland squad as the reigning champions get their heads around the French defeat and a curious job of work to come in Rome.

Interim Ireland head coach Simon Easterby was trying his best to paint a good picture on Saturday evening. But in reality, there was no disguising disappointment and hurt that was etched over his face.

SIMON EASTERBY says that giving Peter O’Mahony an Aviva farewell was one of his easiest decisions ever. O’Mahony, 35, will play his final home game for Ireland in Dublin tomorrow against France.

Ireland interim head coach Easterby refused to question referee Angus Gardner’s decision to allow Pierre Boudehent’s 45th minute try despite a clear tackle off the ball on Peter O’Mahony. He said they will reflect on the incident and may offer some feedback to Gardner and his team of officials.

DUBLIN (AP) — Cian Healy, Ireland’s most-capped rugby player, was one of three stalwarts to announce on Thursday they will be retiring from international duty after the Six Nations. Peter O’Mahony and Conor Murray are also ending their Ireland careers, Irish Rugby said.

Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby says he is sure his side will "bounce back" from the disappointment of their heavy Six Nations defeat by France when they finish their campaign against Italy in Rome on Saturday.

Ireland's Peter O'Mahony, Cian Healy and Conor Murray will retire from Test rugby at the end of this year's Six Nations.

Peter O’Mahony, Cian Healy and Conor Murray have announced they will retire from international rugby following this year’s Six Nations.

Interim Coach Simon Easterby accepts Ireland had worrying patches in each of the three games to here. The was the poor start and a loss-of-concentration finish against England, off-colour patches against Scotland and the 80 minute scare against Wales - France are likely to be less forgiving.

Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby says the "flexibility" offered by Jamie Osborne was key in his selection to face France in the Six Nations on Saturday.