France burst into life when Maxime Medard’s second-half try inspired them to their first victory over Ireland in five years with a 10-9 win in the Six Nations yesterday.

Coach Guy Noves, who took over from Philippe Saint-Andre after last year’s World Cup, had promised spectacular rugby and Les Bleus did their best to deliver at the Stade de France, scoring the only try with 10 minutes remaining.

Flyhalf Jules Plisson converted, adding to his first-half penalty, while defending champions Ireland’s points came from the penalties of Jonny Sexton, who was replaced near the end.

France, who lost 24-9 to the Irish in the World Cup pool phase, now lead the standings with two wins after beating Italy 23-21 in their opening game.

Ireland must wait for their first victory after last weekend’s 16-16 draw against Wales.

Les Bleus had not beaten Ireland in their last five games, winning for the last time in a World Cup warm-up game in 2011, and they were bothered by the visitors’ superiority at the breakdown but they never gave up.

Yesterday’s results
France vs Ireland - 10-9
Wales vs Scotland - 27-23

Playing today
Italy vs England - 15.00

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