It was a change of pace on Saturday as we covered the deciding Six Nations Championship game between Ireland and Scotland, at the Aviva Stadium. At least one match point was required by Ireland to ensure they retained the Championship; Scotland also had plenty to play for as they were still in contention for a Grand Slam.

Scotland took the lead from an 8^th minute Finn Russell penalty goal to lead 3 – 0.

Ireland came back after Scotland had read a lineout move, which sent the Irish maul into touch. From their lineout they overthrew the ball, which was snapped up by Dan Sheehan who ran in unopposed from 5 metres. Jack Crowley‘s conversion gave Ireland a 7 – 3 lead after 13 minutes.

Scotland replied with another Russell penalty goal after an Irish offside.

Ireland pressed but couldn’t break a determined Scottish defence. Halftime was reached with Ireland leading by a single point 7 – 6.

Ireland started the 2^nd half in a determined manner. Scotland quickly conceded a penalty, which was despatched by Crowley for a 43^rd minute 10 – 6 lead.

Ireland continued to press. Tadhg Furlong had a score chalked off for a knock on. Ireland’s handling let them down, as chances went abegging.

Finally, Andrew Porter drove over in the 65^th minute. Crowley’s conversion put daylight between the sides, as Ireland went 17 – 6 up.

In the 77^th minute Huw Jones slipped through tackles to dot down under the posts. Russell’s conversion brought Scotland back to 13 – 17.

Ireland held out for a nervy few minutes, while the crowd were in full voice with ‘The Fields of Athenry’, before the full time whistle blew.

The celebrations in Dublin were mighty!

Match Gallery