Coming into yesterday's Six Nations opener, there was an expectation that France would put in a big performance against Ireland as they attempted to get over the disappointment they experienced during a home World Cup last autumn.
Despite the fact that they were missing a number of key players, it was anticipated that they would have too much for Andy Farrell's side in this game. That was especially true when you threw the atmosphere in Marseille into the mix, with the Stade Velodrome known for being a tough place for away sides to visit.
Of course, the reality was far different.
Ireland were completely dominant in the match, even before France were reduced to 14 men around the half hour mark. They were the better side at the breakdown, defended sternly, and created the better scoring opportunities.
In the end, they were fully deserving of their 21-point victory.
READ HERE: Inspirational Joe McCarthy's Brilliant Gesture To Brother Andrew
France star gives grim summary of Six Nations performance vs Ireland
While it may have been expected that France would bring a huge amount of intensity to this fixture, they actually looked completely toothless in both attack and defence for large periods.
Speaking after the game, French centre Gael Fickou gave a grim summary of just how bad his team were against the Irish.
This evening they outclassed us in every domain.
Very quickly it was 14 v 15 even when it was 15 v 15 it was already very complicated. Thus at 14 it was too much of an ask and they had their noses in front, too.
They thoroughly deserve their victory, there is no debate about that.
They stayed 14 on the line, we were one less. It became difficult to shift the ball. They contested a lot of the rucks.
That is a fairly damning assessment of the French performance from inside the camp.
While they entered this year's Six Nations as favourites to win the championship, there will now be some major doubts surrounding the future prospects of this France team.
SEE ALSO: France Coach Reveals Insane Stat That Shows Just How Good Ireland Were
