Ireland 13-24 South Africa: Ireland shift focus to their ‘bread and butter’ in the Six Nations

Ireland showed fight in the second half against South Africa despite a disorderly first half that left them with 12 men on the field at one stage.

However, the world champions had too much going on, and came away with their first win in Dublin since 2012.

Farrell says the only way to close the gap on Rassie Erasmus’ side and others above them in the rankings is to show improvements in their Six Nations opener against France in three months’ time.

“We have the Six Nations that are our bread and butter, which is what matters in the world to us,” Farrell added.

“So, [it’s about] How will we go through the next nine weeks with our individual and collective preparations as a team while everyone is back in the counties and back preparing for international rugby, which was difficult to do at the start of this campaign.

“But nine weeks to see how much we need to get back into camp is clearly evident after playing a game like this.”

Farrell will be hoping the likes of Brian Gleeson, Edwin Edogbo and Cormac Ezochukwu are back fit and ready for their counties as he looks to expand Ireland’s depth chart as they aim to reclaim the Championship crown from France.

“There will be more experience to give to some guys if they show good form in the next nine weeks, so they will stick with it all the way.”