France 50 Ireland 21

James O'Leary of Ireland is tackled by Melvyn Rates and Luka Keletaona of France during the U20 Six Nations match at Stade Amie Giral in Perpignan, France. Photo: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

James O’Leary of Ireland is tackled by Melvyn Rates and Luka Keletaona of France during the U20 Six Nations match at Stade Amie Giral in Perpignan, France. Photo: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

A bad week for Irish rugby ended on a dismal note when Andrew Browne’s side left Stade Aimé Giral in Perpignan on the back of an eight‑tries‑to‑three drubbing in the U‑20 Six Nations.

There were some good passages from the Irish but they were outclassed by the reigning champions and there was never a chance of a boost after the chastening experiences of Andy Farrell’s side on Thursday night and the second‑string team against England A in Thomond Park on Friday.