By Shamrock
March 5 2012
Paul O'Connell reckons Ireland threw away a golden opportunity to beat France drawing 17-17 in the rearranged game in Paris ..
Ireland led 17-6 at the break after winger Tommy Bowe touched down twice, the first an interception from Aurelien Rougerie’s lazy pass and the second an exceptional solo effort.
But the home side got back into the game through Wesley Fofana’s 51st minute try as Ireland blew a glorious chance to claim victory in France for the first time in 12 years.
The result means Wales are now the only team still on for a clean sweep with Ireland effectively out of the running for the title.
O'Connell said: "There's certainly a big feeling of defeat and an opportunity lost.
"“We conceded a really soft, poor try and we're really disappointed with our second-half performance.
“At half-time we said we must score first, which is what you say every time you lead away from home, but France are a very good side.
“To not score in the second half was very frustrating."
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