The rampant pessimism that preceded the Welsh game left many feeling oddly satisfied after the 16-16 draw.
Having avoided the loss with a depleted side, Ireland embark on the formerly daunting trip to Paris buoyed by the news that Sean O'Brien and Tommy O'Donnell are back training.
Pascal Pape is not included in the French squad however and thus Sean O'Brien will not get to exact revenge after the Frenchman craftily got himself punched in the stomach by O'Brien in the early stages of the World Cup pool game last October.
Fergus McFadden has been parachuted in as cover for Keith Earls who suffered a concussion during the Welsh game. Schmidt confirmed yesterday that Earls is a highly doubtful for the Paris game.
He passed the initial Head Injury Assessment but showed later symptoms meaning he had to pass the return to play protocols this week.
However, Cian Healy and Mike Ross remain out of the squad. They are regarded as being 'in the mix' but they have yet to return.
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