Six Nations: Ireland boss Simon Easterby backs his side to respond to French disappointment against Italy

Easterby said it was “devastating” that Ireland were not better in a game of such high stakes and was left frustrated by his side’s inability to make the most of their opportunities against France.

They had the edge in both possession and territory but had just one converted score to show for their first seven visits to the France 22.

That try from Dan Sheehan put the hosts 13-8 ahead in the 43rd minute but Fabien Galthie’s side scored the game’s next 34 points.

“We started really well. We just didn’t quite convert enough of the opportunities and at half-time we felt like we were in the ascendancy,” said Easterby.

“We felt like we had kind of broken the back of them a little bit, even though the score wasn’t in our favour.

“But, listen, it’s devastating that we’ve not been able to produce a better performance, not in all the game, just in dealing with chunks of the game which allowed them to get the momentum and get the result.”

After such a defeat, Easterby said it was important Ireland channelled their emotion in the correct fashion.

“The challenge now is to put that disappointment behind them and get themselves together, stay nice and tight, and understand why we didn’t get the result and how we can get better.

“That’s all they’re ever about, whether we win or lose.”