Tonga’s passion and effort was admirable throughout but Ireland’s preserved their perfect start with a dominant victory. Ireland struggled to navigate past a resolute Tongan defence during an arduous opening 15 minutes in Nantes. Sexton’s early penalty established an early lead for the Irish, but William Havili levelled after Wayne Barnes penalised Peter O’Mahony for obstruction. After Sexton’s historic moment, Tonga exerted a period of sustained pressure as half-time approached and they were rewarded handsomely. Tonga’s man advantage only resulted in another three points before O’Mahony’s return and Ireland enjoyed complete control in the second half.

Source: The Herald September 16, 2023 21:28 UTC