They actually did better statistically in the first half going into the break 29-0 vs the 21-7 score in the second half, but anyway. What they did well was to shut the opposition out with near perfect set pieces and their ability to hang onto the ball for long periods at a time and that will make them hard to beat going forward in the pool stages. Which ever way, I personally still reckon they ought to make the semis.
Oh, don't get me wrong, I think Ireland are a good team. I just think they could have played better today.
France-Romania, anyone? Romanians just had a sure try held up to stop them taking the lead. 3-3 instead after 20