04. Joe McCarthy (Ireland)
Telegraph 9/10: “Tenacious and towering on Six Nations debut. A man possessed at lock with a phenomenal future ahead. One careless dropped pass the only blot.”
Rugby Dump 9/10: “Mark these words: McCarthy will be the building block of the Irish pack for the next decade. The 22-year-old obliterated his French counterparts and was deservedly named player of the match, his carrying ability was off the charts.”
Rugby Pass 8.5/10: “A revelation in the second row, the Leinsterman’s athleticism and physicality were a pivotal part of the Irish effort. Ran out of steam in the second half.”
05. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland)
Rugby Pass 8/10: “Beirne was everywhere, stealing balls at the breakdown, charging down kicks, and making crucial tackles. His versatility shone brightly tonight and his 29th minute true was no more than he deserved.”
Balls 9/10: “Got over for Ireland’s 2nd try with an outstanding attack line. Slowed much of France’s attack with some great defence work. His lineout steal 5m from the Ireland try lineout was world class. Got through a massive amount of work. 7 Tackles / 12 ball carries.”
06. Ethan Roots (England)
Telegraph 9/10: “An outstanding debut. Virtually the only English forward who consistently punched over the gainline, strong at the breakdown and became a very handy line-out option.”
RUCK 8/10: “The man of the match on the day, Exeter Chiefs back-row Ethan Roots could not have dreamt up a better international debut. A strong all round performance, with his physicality showcased in the ruck and collision. Roots made a key carry on the run up to Daly’s try, and also excelled in the air at line-out time.”
Planet Rugby 8/10: “Very good debut from the New Zealand-born flanker. Carried hard into contact and was also a useful option in the lineout. “
07. Tommy Reffell (Wales)
Wales Online 8/10: “He was outstanding after the break, and played a key role in Wales winning quick ball at ruck time. Reffell also carried the ball well after the break and was pivotal to Wales’ comeback.”
08. Aaron Wainwright (Wales)
Wales Online 8/10: “Wales’ main source of lineout ball while he carried aggressively and dynamically. One searing break downfield after the break sparked Wales into life while he also did well to claim a try from short-range. A real class act, and the clear long-term successor to Taulupe Faletau at No 8.”
Planet Rugby 9/10: “Wainwright worked tirelessly in all departments throughout this clash, finishing with 65 metres gained, 10 tackles made and he also scored a well-taken try and completed 12 hits.”
QUIZ: Can you name the top 10 Six Nations point scorers of all-time?
These rugby legends have left their mark on the competition with their exceptional skills and precision on the field. Do you think you have what it takes to recall the leading point-scorers in Six Nations history?
Lace up your virtual boots, sharpen your memory, and let’s see if you can kick your way to a perfect score in this exciting quiz!