Ireland beat Scotland to keep Six Nations hopes alive

Ireland’s pack starred as they beat Scotland to clinch their first Triple Crown in four years and ensure the Six Nations title race goes to the final match of the tournament.

The win over Scotland came courtesy of tries from Dan Sheehan, Cian Healy, Josh van der Flier and Conor Murray.

Pierre Schoeman recorded Scotland’s only goal shortly before half-time.

The defeat ends another disappointing tournament for Gregor Townsend’s side, who started brilliantly with a brilliant win over England, in which they are set to finish fourth unless England suffer a heavy defeat against France.

Now trailing Ireland by three points in the standings, France know that any form of victory over the English will secure their first Grand Slam since 2010.

Farrell wins his first trophy as head coach

The Triple Crown, Ireland’s sixth since the turn of the century, is Farrell’s first piece of silver since he was promoted from assistant coach to the top job after the 2019 World Cup.

During his time in command, he oversaw the reimagining of the Ireland attack, which while initially a bumpy transition, has grown into a recognizable and successful system.

While not always so free-flowing, coupled with an aggressive defensive structure, it has produced 12 wins in Ireland’s last 13 games.

Against Scotland it was largely a flawed performance as they struggled to find the advantage and stretch the away defense regularly.

However, there was still enough fast ball and aggressive driving to see the hosts take control of the game in the first half.

After conceding an incredible six penalties at Twickenham last week, eyes were on the Irish scrum, which held up well save for a late-half Scottish win.

Front rows Sheehan and Healy put the finishing touches on the opening two downs, with the hooker coming out of a rolling maul for the first down after 17 minutes.

Healy looked for second 10 minutes later after strong carries from Sheehan and Jack Conan.

While Ireland enjoyed the better of the first half, the final 10 minutes belonged to Scotland and provided them with a route back into the game, as Schoeman benefited from excellent counterattacking to put their side on the board.

More to follow.