Lacken's finest helps Ireland to momentous World Cup win

Lacken's Caelan Doris was a central figure in Paris tonight as Ireland defeated South Africa in the Rugby World Cup. The former Ballina RFC number eight was tireless during an epic encounter in the Stade de France in front of a huge and vocal Irish support. 

South Africa began on the front and were the better team early on. However, Ireland restricted them to just three points and gradually played their way into the game. A try from Mack Hansen converted by Jonathan Sexton put the men in green in front before half time.

The second half was a battle of brawn and brains as both teams took each other on physically and tactically. Ten minutes into the second period, the Springboks retook the lead when they unleashed a sweeping move from a scrum and Cheslin Kolbe got over for a try. However out-half Manie Libbok put the conversion wide.

The World champions went on to miss another three kicks at goal and when Ireland got a chance at the other end, Sexton put Andy Farrell's team back in front after 58 minutes.

Momentum swung one way and then the other as South Africa brought on their seven forward replacements. However, Ireland dug in and refused to yield any more scores. They worked their way up the pitch in the closing minutes and Jack Crowley knocked over a penalty to leave Ireland 13-8 clear after 78 minutes.

South Africa had one last chance to win the game and threatened the Irish line as injury time arrived but the men in green stood tall and the final whistle unleashed scenes of wild delight in the stands as the Irish fans celebrated a momentous victory.

Ireland now have two weeks off before they take on Scotland in their final pool game.