Sunday 12 February 2017 12:33, UK
Hat-trick hero CJ Stander says Ireland have to ensure a repeat of their display against Italy when they return to Six Nations action against France in a fortnight.
Stander and replacement Craig Gilroy helped themselves to trebles in Rome, where Ireland scored nine converted tries in a 63-10 romp.
Victory was at least some small consolation for their defeat against Scotland in the opening round of the Six Nations, a result that left them with an uphill battle to get back into the race for the title.
And Stander insists victory over the Azzurri should not get the squad, or Ireland's fans, too carried away.
"We were disappointed last week so we knew it would be tough right from the off in Italy," said Stander.
"Not winning in Scotland has made it tough for us when it comes to the title, and what chances we have. Everyone knows that, so beating Italy is great.
"I wouldn't say we're back in the mix for the title yet though, I'd just say we're one step closer.
"France are an extremely tough side, they've got some unbelievable players in their team, so we've got two weeks to prepare for that match to make sure we're at our best.
"They are getting better all the time, they are extremely physical and confrontational and we're going to have to be ready for that."
Stander's hat-trick was the first by a forward in the Six Nations, something that came as a surprise to him.
He added: "Really? Wow, there you go. I didn't know that at all, but that's all testament to the hard work of the team.
"Sometimes you're on the end of things, but the important thing is winning, it doesn't matter who's scoring. No-one scores unless everyone is doing their jobs anyway, so it's just about working hard, doing your job and taking it from there.
"The boys made it easy for me, I was just on the end of the hard work from everyone. Everyone did a good job today and that paid off.
"It's a good feeling to come away with the win, and now we just have to move forward and work hard again.
"We definitely felt we had something to prove after Scotland. We managed to get on the front foot early and were able to keep up the pressure.
"Everyone looks out for each other, we all get stuck in and work hard. You just concentrate on doing what you need to do. You've just got to work hard for the team and for your team-mates.
"It's great to get that bonus point, it's not something you chase but it's also something that could help us in the tournament."
