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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Dylan James

Antoine Dupont defies physics with insane try-saving tackle in Ireland v France

France's Antoine Dupont has provided rugby fans with yet another moment of sheer brilliance in the Guinness Six Nations.

From sublime diving finishes to shuddering big hits, northern hemisphere titans France and Ireland played out a blockbuster first half in Dublin, and two-time player of the tournament Dupont produced another moment for the highlights reel.

After a clearance from Les Bleus full-back Thomas Ramos was charged down by the men in green, the home side made their assault on the French whitewash.

READ MORE: Ireland star produces one of the greatest finishes you'll ever see as commentators wowed

Hugo Keenan cut through France's defensive line with a clever kick down the touchline. As he and chasing defender Gael Fickou scrambled to secure the loose ball, a pursuing Mack Hansen collected, just a few feet from the try line.

Step forward one of the smallest men on the field, Mr Dupont. He may not be as big as his fellow players, but he is most certainly as strong. Grappling around Hansen's waist, somehow the Toulouse scrum-half manages to prevent the Irish flyer from dotting down.

Six Nations' French Twitter account said "this player is not human", while TV commentators were left awe-struck.

Miles Harrison said: "To hold someone out from that distance. He's taller than him, he's bigger than him and heavier than him. The desire to keep Mack Hansen out there from Antoine Dupont. It might sound obvious but that's almost impossible."

In the studio at half-time, Australia great George Gregan said he would have never been able to make the tackle. Brian O'Driscoll heaped on the praise too, saying: "The coverage, the simple things done extremely well is what makes him the world-class player that he is."

"Would you have made the tackle?" asked presenter Jill Douglas. "No chance!" said Gregan.

Former England prop David Flatman said on Twitter: "That Dupont tackle made Hansen look like one of those people on the news being filmed leaning into a gale force wind at an impossible angle."

Former England back Ugo Monye said: "Genuinely one of the best try saving tackles I’ve seen. Mental strength from Dupont."

Ireland eventually cemented their status as the number one ranked side in the world with an impressive 32-19 victory over France in a Six Nations clash in Dublin that will go down as an instant classic.

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