Ireland recorded one of their most handsome victories in recent years in beating France 62 in the final game of the Celtic Cup tournament at Queens University, Belfast. But a frustrating 1-0 defeat by Scotland on Saturday meant that the Irish side were destined for second place while the Scots - who finished with a 3-1 win over Wales - carried off the trophy.

Based on the weekend performance, Ireland would now be well capable of making an impact in the World Cup Qualifier in Edinburgh next month. But instead they must bide their time to re-establish themselves in the top six of the European rankings.

After being tied down by the relentless Scottish team, Ireland swept into open spaces against France and were two up within 10 minutes as Stephen Butler converted a penalty stroke forced by Justin Sherriff, followed by a virtuoso second goal by Mark Raphael.

France managed to respond through Matthieu Durchon from a short corner; then Butler put away a second penalty. Again the French rallied: Arnaud Becuwe reduced the deficit to 3-2 by the interval.

Ireland, however, were rewarded with three goals within four minutes in the final quarter. First, Raphael confidently finished off a set-piece; then he sent Sherriff clean through to widen the margin before Sherriff completed the tally with a solo dash.

The Irish defence also played with encouraging assurance.