Irish prop Andrew Porter says that a French defeat at the Six Nations last weekend gave the Irish an incentive to perform because they know what they can do in a Six Nations match against Italy.
The championship is currently out of Ireland’s hands and will have to beat Italy in Rome, hoping that the outcome of the game that continues on Saturday will go their way.
Second-placed England is away from Wales, but the French leaders have their destiny in their own hands as the leaders face Scotland in Paris in the final match of this year’s tournament.
“We have to take our learning from that defeat, but fortunate for us, it’s not our last game, we can look forward to a big test in Rome.
“We can sit around and do all the jobs we love, but there is another job to do next Saturday.
Porter says Ireland is further encouraged by the fact that it can secure three historic six-country titles in a row.
“That’s the most exciting thing. We’re not completely out of the competition yet. It’s all about playing this weekend.
“We have listed Italy on their home patches on an incredibly proud team, we do what we can, do what we can and give performances we are proud of as players.
“Italians have their own threats and they are dressed well, too. They are a great team at home, except for the French games.
