Ireland threaten record win after sealing first-half bonus point

Sat, 10 Feb, 2018 - 15:22

Stephen Barry

Ireland are on target for a record victory over Italy, after a four-try whitewash in the first-half of their Six Nations clash, writes Stephen Barry.

Tries from Robbie Henshaw, Conor Murray, Bundee Aki and Keith Earls gave Ireland a 28-0 lead, which guarantees them a try-scoring bonus point.

TV3 pundit Ronan O'Gara said he believes Ireland can exceed their biggest ever win over Conor O'Shea's side - last year's 63-10 demolition job in Rome.

2 tries scored and converted in the first 20 minutes and they are still coming!#IREvITA #TV3Rugby #NatWest6Nations pic.twitter.com/ICLLMkm07S
— Virgin Media Television (@VirginMedia_TV) February 10, 2018

Here's how @ConnachtRugby hero Bundee Aki scored his first try for Ireland. #IREvITA #TV3Rugby #NatWest6Nations pic.twitter.com/aCOTcyYIPN
— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) February 10, 2018

"His acceleration is what sets him apart."

Keith Earls scores his 27th try for his country and moves ahead of Israel Dagg on the international all-time list. #IREvITA #TV3Ireland pic.twitter.com/EMgdwP4R6u
— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) February 10, 2018

Having failed to score a try against France, it all left Irish fans in a happy place.

Conor O'Shea right now. #IREvITA pic.twitter.com/npR5YCoUGz
— BenchWarmers (@BeWarmers) February 10, 2018

Great 1st half Would like to see Carberry and Larimor on for the 2nd #IREvITA
— Matt 🐦🇮🇪 🇺🇦 🐟#FBPE #JoinAUnion (@Mattladd1) February 10, 2018

The woman beside me is literally hyperventilating. We're 21-0 up. Can't imagine how she handled the last 7 mins of last week #IREvITA
— Peter Comerford (@TweetzyPetezy) February 10, 2018

The only worry will be the hamstring injury to Tadhg Furlong.

No contest here in Dublin - Ireland good value for their 28-nil lead but Italy grim. Far worse news for Ireland the injury to Tadhg Furlong.
— Andrew Cotter (@MrAndrewCotter) February 10, 2018