Fans hope their team put a stop to Ireland's gallop

Bernard Laporte wasn't the only Frenchman playing mind-games with the Irish yesterday.

While the visiting coach wound up his Irish counterpart Eddie O'Sullivan with criticism of recent refereeing decisions, the visiting French fans were taunting locals with unnerving levels of confidence.

"We will win," said Christian Roy. "24-14."

Really? Even after losing to Wales a fortnight ago?

A blank expression crossed his face. "No. No. We win. We win," he said and then hastily broke into a chant of "Allez les Bleus".

In denial or just plain proud? Either way, he is not alone in thinking France will spoil Ireland's Grand Slam preparations this afternoon - and perhaps even go on to win the championship.

The inimitable George Hook has tipped a French victory, and the form-book is on his side. Last season it was 35-17 in France's favour in Paris, but then Ireland were without Brian O'Driscoll, Geordan Murphy and Denis Hickie because of injuries.

Dublin's traders meanwhile would certainly rather Ireland played on a Sunday. "Sunday games allow visitors to go shopping on the Saturday," noted Aebhric McGibney of the Dublin Chamber of Commerce. The 6,000 travelling French fans were nonetheless expected to give a €10 million boost to the economy.

Whatever about the playing date, the 1.30pm start time may not suit Ireland, nor the burden of favourites tag, nor indeed the weather. The French seemed better prepared even for that yesterday with snug-fitting berets, scarves and winter jackets, while the natives got blown around in their summer wear.

But enough of the excuses. Ireland has never had as good a chance to land a Grand Slam in almost 60 years. Whisper it, but history beckons in Cardiff next Saturday.