Damian Penaud’s magnificent end-to-end try has been crowned Guinness Six Nations Try of the Round for Round 2.
The French flyer has seen off competition from Hugo Keenan, Kyle Steyn and Henry Arundell to take the top prize, receiving 39% of the vote from fans.
France’s sole score in Dublin was one to savour, with Penaud starting and finishing a move which started inside his own 22.
It seemed unthinkable that those wearing blue at Aviva Stadium would be rejoicing a few moments later when Romain Ntamack’s misplaced pass bobbled its way inside France’s 22.
But few possess the ability to beat a man the way Penaud does. After collecting Thomas Ramos’ tap-on, his first step inside was a masterstroke, taking three defenders out of the game.
With the Irish calvary arriving, he passed inside to Anthony Jelonch, who muscled his way to Ireland’s 10-metre line before linking up with Penaud once more.
The 26-year-old still had a lot to do but used his searing pace to sneak between Conor Murray and Mack Hansen before galloping clear to dot down for a breath-taking score.
That was the highlight on an otherwise difficult day for Les Bleus at Aviva Stadium, but they will feel hopeful of turning their fortunes round at home to Scotland in Round 3 if Penaud is in the mood.
2023 Guinness Six Nations Try of the Round winners:
Round 1: Duhan van der Merwe Round 2: Damian Penaud
