Ireland ended a run of seven straight losses to France by winning 30-21 on the opening day of the Six Nations rugby tournament on Saturday with Gordon D'Arcy scoring on his return a year after breaking his arm.

Although a try by backrower Imanol Harinordoquy gave France an early 7-3 lead, Jamie Heaslip, captain Brian O'Driscoll and D'Arcy crossed the French line at Croke Park and Ronan O'Gara kicked three conversions and three penalties.

The French got within five points of Ireland when winger Maxime Medard went over 20-15 in the 51st minute.

But D'Arcy's try in the 66th made sure the Irish, who have not won the championship since 1985, started with an impressive victory over one of their biggest rivals.

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