Three stand-out players in Ireland's record-breaking demolition of Portugal
Stuart McCloskey got the try-scoring underway after less than a minute as there were eight first half tries. Debutants Shayne Bolton and Hugh Gavin both scored twice with Tommy O'Brien notching up another two of his own. Thomas Clarkson also strolled in a try as Ireland went into the sheds 54-0 up.
It was emblematic of proceedings when the TMO had to be stopped during the first half because communications went down, both conditions and intensity were not that of a test match level. Stuart McCloskey of Ireland scores his side's first try. Pic: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
The scoring continued in the second half with Craig Casey crossing over after a minute with Cian Prendergast scoring twice as well as Calvin Nash, Ciaran Frawley, Alex Kendellen, Ben Murphy and a penalty try helping Ireland record their record win (previous record was 83-3 against USA in 2003) and most tries in a single test with 15 (previous being 12 from that same game).
Another week, another debutant winger impressing and this time it's Connacht's Shayne Bolton. The South African-born winger with an Irish granny hasn't had the easiest time in Ireland as he's dealt with a lot of injury issues but when he's on form you can see why the IRFU worked hard to bring him over.
He has a great blend of size and speed that Ireland don't always produce. At just 25, if he can stay fit and get into some form he could be the next-in-line for that 11 jersey. Shayne Bolton of Ireland on his way to scoring. Pic: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
He was unfortunate to not get a mention last week but Jimmy O'Brien was back to his best on Saturday. It was a very low level but of competition O'Brien still looked very good on the pitch. He fielded well and when he stepped into the line he linked up well out wide.
As ever with these Leinster players you want to see them play more for their club side but it's still great to see that when called upon they're still able to step up and perform with ease. Jimmy O'Brien of Ireland is tackled by Diego Pinheiro Ruiz. Pic: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
At times it was like watching men against boys at times in this game and Jack Crowley was symbolic of that. Seemingly always having time on the ball, Crowley showed off his highlight reel of tricks throughout as he sliced and diced the Portuguese defence.
It was clear to see that Crowley was a step above. The only thing he would take from the game is the solid kicking practice he got, slotting 12 of the 15 conversions taken over.
It'll be hard to take much else out of this game but it's good to see so many youngsters make their breaks into the International scene and express themselves. They approached both games as they were Test matches and did two professional jobs, with minimal injuries coming out of it too you can say it's a job well done for Paul O'Connell and co.
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