Schmidt pays respect to 'freakishly good' Frenchman

Ireland cannot rely on last-gasp moments of quality from Jonathan Sexton if they are to build on their opening Six Nations win over France, says Joe Schmidt.

With seconds remaining at the Stade de France Ireland found themselves behind for the first time after Anthony Belleau converted Teddy Thomas’ superb try.

But the visitors snatched a 15-13 victory from the jaws of defeat thanks to a moment of brilliance from Sexton, the fly-half nailing a 40-yard drop goal with the last kick of the game.

Despite the moment bringing great joy to the players, staff and fans alike, head coach Schmidt knows they must see off games early when they enjoy such domination.

Did you wake up feeling like this? We did! #FRAvIRE #TeamOfUs #ShoulderToShoulder 😃😃😃 pic.twitter.com/99eAcQT5P6

— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) February 4, 2018

“We can’t leave matches in the balance,” he said. “We must make the most of advantages and get the points we need.

“One freakish event, and one freakishly good player in Thomas and his try can undo all that hard work.

“That is something we’re disappointed with and we’ve got to do something to make sure that doesn’t happen next week, and for the following weeks of the championship.”

Ireland welcome Italy to Dublin next weekend, before hosting Wales and Scotland ahead of their final match away to England.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJgldhTPFm0&t=1s