Ireland's Six Nations title challenge is far from over, according to former International Shane Byrne.
Joe Schmidt's charges fell to a disappointing 27-22 loss to Scotland in their opening encounter of the tournament, putting them out of the race for the Grand Slam Crown.
"I think we are still well in it. Clearly the slam is gone for us, but the Championship isn't. We've got to remember that there are bonus points available throughout the Six Nations. I think we'll still be in the chase for it. Please God!"
Byrne feels Stuart Hogg's influential performance was key to the Scottish victory, and exposed a weakness in the Irish game plan:
"We leak tries, and this is a major problem Ireland have, but doesn't take away from what Scotland did. Stuart Hogg is probably one of the most exciting attackers in Northern Hemisphere Rugby at the moment, leading the charge for the Lions full-back position. We gave him open space every time, questions have to be asked - why was that?"
Ireland travel to Rome next week, looking to bounce back with victory over the Italians, who begin their campaign against Wales this afternoon.
You can hear Shane Byrne's thoughts on yesterday performance below, and his belief that although the boys in green are down, they are most certainly not out:
