Ireland hit by injuries to Sexton, O'Connell

Cardiff

Ireland were hit by injuries to key players Jonny Sexton and captain Paul O'Connell in the first-half of their Pool D decider against France on Sunday.

Sexton kicked two early penalties for the Irish, but was on the receiving end of two ferocious tackles. The second by France No 8 Louis Picamoles left him on his knees gasping for air.

The fly-half limped off to be replaced by Ian Madigan after 25 minutes. There was worse to follow as O'Connell caught his leg awkardly in a ruck on the stroke of half-time.

The Munster lock was given oxygen as he was stretchered off, his Irish team leading 9-6 after the first 40 minutes.