An early strike from Leanne Kiernan gave Ireland their second win from three Elite Phase qualifiers and it was thoroughly deserved from the performance that they produced.
There was a mark of class about this particular team from the first time that Dave Bell assembled them and that was evident again in Bayeux, France as they overcame their hosts.
A strong and vocal group of Irish supporters cheered the team on, but the players needed little added inspiration because a place at the finals in Belarus was up for grabs.
Following an opening victory over Hungary, Bell's team sat top of Group 3 before slipping to a late defeat to Czech Republic. Therefore, only victory over France would keep them in the hunt.
Ireland certainly did their job with Kiernan supplying the goal on 21 minutes following a period of pressure. It was a goal that stunned their opponents and gave Ireland an advantage that they never let go of.
The positive approach, the attacking play, and the admirable commitment displayed by each of the players helped the team to cap off their Elite Phase qualifying with their heads held high.
RepublicofIreland: McAloon; O'Callaghan, Farrelly, Doyle, Craven; Noonan, Ruddy (Reybet-Degat 57), Kavanagh; Payne, Homan, Kiernan.
France: Joly; Drozo (Rey 72), Goetsch, Enguehard, Rebours; Rueda (Khelifi 53), Gillet; Laplacette, Boussaha, Canon; Ikene (Cochelin 30).
Referee: Tess Petersson (Sweden).