Van der Flier Urges Ireland to Shake Off France Defeat for Six Nations Finale Against Italy

Ireland face critical mindset challenge after France defeat
Back row Josh van der Flier has emphasized the importance of Ireland rapidly processing their 23-38 loss to France as they prepare for their final Six Nations match against Italy this Saturday. The defeat in Dublin left Ireland's historic three-peat title ambitions hanging by a thread.

Mathematical title possibilities remain
Despite the setback, Ireland still sit third in the standings, just two points behind leaders France and one behind England. Van der Flier acknowledged the team must first address psychological recovery: "You have to get all the misery out of the way on Monday or Tuesday, so it's not hanging over you for the rest of the week. Those things can't drag into next week."

Bonus-point strategy could pressure rivals
The 31-year-old Leinster flanker highlighted the advantage of playing first in Saturday's triple-header schedule. A dominant bonus-point victory against Italy would force England (vs Wales) and France (vs Scotland) to chase specific results in later matches. "It's nice to be able to get out early and put out a score to beat," van der Flier noted, while admitting "it's probably out of our hands."

Performance pride at stake
Beyond championship mathematics, van der Flier stressed the importance of restoring pride after the France disappointment: "We have to put in a performance to be proud of, both for team morale and representing our country." Ireland have recorded nine consecutive wins against Italy since 2013, but the Azzurri showed improved form in this year's tournament.

Championship scenarios