Six Nations 2012: Tommy Bowe would swap tries for Ireland win
Tommy Bowe admits disappointment was the main feeling in the Irish dressing room after the 17-17 draw with France in Paris.
Tommy Bowe has admitted his disappointment after Ireland surrendered an 11-point half-time lead to draw with France in their Six Nations clash in Paris on Sunday.
Ireland had gone in to the game as underdogs with France aiming to make it three wins from three to maintain their Grand Slam challenge, and the men in green without a win in Paris since 2000.
But the visitors looked set to rip up the script with Bowe crossing twice in the first half to give Ireland a thoroughly deserved 17-6 half-time advantage.
But France hit back in an enthralling second half scoring 11 unanswered points, including a try from Wesley Fofana, to set up a grandstand finish that almost led to a French win but for some resilient Irish defence.
However, while a draw in Paris is far from a disgrace, Bowe admitted the team were frustrated to let the win slip away.
“We put them under pressure in the first half but failed to score in the second half which was disappointing,” said the winger, who has scored five tries in this season’s RBS 6 Nations.
“To score two tries in Paris is a great achievement but nobody enjoys coming away with a draw. We showed good composure to in the last ten minutes.
“Our first half display was outstanding but we were under a lot of pressure at the end and did well to avoid giving away a penalty, which was crucial.” 
