Andrew Porter celebrates after Ireland’s win over Fiji at the Aviva Stadium  © David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

Mack Hansen 8

Getting a run again at 15 and as expected started with assurance, though some errors crept in. Did so well for Rob Baloucoune’s first try and was the one player who looked as if he could make things happen.  

Rob Baloucoune 8

Helped carve out the first try. Unlucky on Prendergast’s cross-kick but scored off his long pass. Then got another run-in, though surely Stuart McCloskey’s pass was forward.

Jamie Osborne N/R

An important call in a position requiring it. And after an early tackle, his second on Tevita Ikanivere saw him wince in pain. And after the stoppage, he was gone for McCloskey.

Bundee Aki 6

His first start in nearly a year and he was clearly keen to impress. There was a typical strong, direct run but he was quiet in the opening half. He has some good moments but this was a challenging night for him. 

Tommy O’Brien 7

Picked at 11 and had a busy evening. The early knock-on wasn’t ideal, nor was a forward pass he threw to McCloskey. There were two tries and an important breakdown penalty.

Sam Prendergast 7

Handed another start after an impressive first weekend; however, that break and loss of the ball forward let Fiji lead. Some good passing and a sumptuous chip for O’Brien’s second. But missed three conversions. Mixed bag.

Jamison Gibson-Park 7

Needed to bring his ‘A’ game to this but lost the ball in the act of scoring. Did well for Baloucoune’s second try and there was a vital second-half tackle. Great break upfield too.

Andrew Porter 8

So powerful when facing the Pumas, and was in the thick of it from the start with one notable turnover. Really strong in contact and at the scrum. Has come back bursting with energy and effectiveness.

Rónan Kelleher 7

Made an important tackle on Joseva Tamani. Pinged for obstruction on the Fiji line, but his turnover led to Baloucoune’s second, and then he took the bonus-point score. Won another lineout turnover as well. 

Mack Hansen, one of Ireland’s better performers, and Selestino Ravutaumada of Fiji contest a high ball  © David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

Tadhg Furlong 7

As with Porter, the intention was to build and perform — though his first carry saw him hammered backwards by the Fijians. Had some useful involvements after that though, and scrummed well before departing; returned for Illo.

James Ryan 6

Was fully focused on a starting spot next time out. His game is always about graft and work-rate, though there were discipline issues which will have damaged him. Was mistakenly initially shown yellow.

Tadhg Beirne 7

The captain this time around and was one of several defenders unable to deal with Tuisova’s try. Was shown yellow at the end of the first half. He worked hard but didn’t have his usual impact.

Ryan Baird 7

Handed another chance to show his worth and had an early gallop, but was off-grid on an advantage play. He looked so dangerous with the ball and kept going right to the end.

Josh van der Flier 7

Nick Timoney’s move will have boosted his opportunity, and he was busy scrambling at times. There were significant carries and then he got back to help win a penalty. Grew into the game as it wore on.

Nick Timoney 7

Shifting to No 8 being a necessity, he was close to scoring. Didn’t collect a restart, though did importantly get Jiuta Wainiqolo. Came back on for the injured James McNabney and showed his power for the try.

Ireland captain Tadhg Beirne with his daughter Penelope after the match  © Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Bench impact 7

Stuart McCloskey was in after just three minutes, which was never part of the plan, and he and Aki had to then combine in midfield. James McNabney’s first cap saw him surge into open country showing just what he can do; however, he took a head hit just short of the line and looked to have been knocked out, forcing his removal. Sam Illo joined him and looked pretty shaken. Craig Casey had an impact and gave Timoney an assist. Tom O’Toole got a tackle on Wainiqolo and Ciarán Frawley nearly scored a try.

Coach — Andy Farrell 7

The selection had a theme of continuity to it, so the fact they were forced to work by Fiji is no bad thing. However, he will still be disappointed with aspects of Ireland’s play.