Things we learned from Ireland's win over Russia
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Sexton is crucial to Ireland
The Ireland captain ran the show in the first half, as Ireland raced into a 21-0 lead at half time. The Leinster out-half put Russia under the cosh with some lovely kicks in behind. Had a lovely timed grubber through to setup O'Mahony for his try. Ireland lacked cohesion in the second half, which tied into Sexton being brought off. Ireland seem to be managing his game time, Schmidt will be hoping any niggles aren't too serious.
☘️ @JohnnySexton captains @IrishRugby for the first time
— ITV Rugby (@ITVRugby) October 3, 2019
Look at what it means to the @leinsterrugby fly-half 🙌#IREvRUS #RWC2019 pic.twitter.com/3U762a350L
Ireland much improved at the set piece
Niall Scannell brought stability to ireland's line out in the first half nailing 5/6 of his line out's. In the second half Ireland went on to win their next 9 line out's, which will be good news to Joe Schmidt after last weeks performance. Ireland won all their own scrums too, with Kilcoyne looking strong at the scrum, setting the tone by winning a penalty early on.
