Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
MAN OF THE MATCH HE’S OFF TO A FLIER
Diagne scored in the second minute for West Brom before Fernandes (above) pulled one back
CIAN HEALY
Made the most tackles on Irish side. Unlucky to smash heads with Henderson in second half.
ROB HERRING
Solid lineout work but Ulster hooker still has Ronan Kelleher breathing right down his neck.
ANDREW PORTER
Has got through some mileage recently and was called ashore here after 53 minutes.
TADHG BEIRNE
Not as eye-catching as last week but made some big poaches. Influential in the Ireland lineout.
IAIN HENDERSON
Led by example in his first game captaining Ireland. Returned after HIA despite being split open.
RHYS RUDDOCK
Long overdue start and the flanker busted a gut throughout. His physicality is a necessity.
JOSH VAN DER FLIER
Deservedly kept his place but Leinster back row man lacked the presence to make a difference.
CJ STANDER
Most carries and metres carried in an industrious display but the presence of Caelan Doris is missed.
JAMISON GIBSON-PARK
Mixed bag from the scrum-half, full of energy and invention with some fumbles thrown in too.
BILLY BURNS
Competently filled Sexton-size boots after Cardiff disappointment but 42nd minute HIA ended game.
JAMES LOWE
Millimetres from scoring first try of the game, kicked strongly but weak defensively for Damian Penaud’s try.
ROBBIE HENSHAW
Hands full with the very talented French midfield but Leinster centre took it all in his stride.
GARRY RINGROSE
Another strong centre outing, took over captaincy while Iain Henderson was off the pitch for his HIA.
KEITH EARLS
Munster winger was more solid than in Cardiff. Was tripped for Bernard Le Roux’s sin-binning.
HUGO KEENAN
Poor timing with pass for James Lowe’s first half try chance. Unlucky to be turned over at the end.
IRELAND REPS.
Ross Byrne 7; Tadhg
Furlong 7; Ronan Kelleher 7; Will Connors 7; Jordan Larmour 6; Ed Byrne 7; Ultan Dillane 6