It’s all over bar the shouting when it comes to the 2017 Six Nations after Ireland’s disappointment last week against Wales…
But there are still few things more satisfying than standing in the way of an English Grand Slam the day after St. Paddy’s Day, and that’s the mission for Joe Schmidt’s men this afternoon. England badly want the win here, which is reason enough for Ireland to play out of their skins.
Ireland took an early lead through a Johnny Sexton penalty, but the score was levelled just minutes later. Ireland fans had cause for complaints after Itoje escaped the sinbin despite one late tackle on Sexton and an offside takedown of Marmion during the ruck.
Ireland were fired up though, and Iain Henderson soon went over with the first try of the game, which Sexton dutifully converted, giving Ireland a 10-3 lead. Ireland held on to the lead and stayed in the ascendancy, dominating possession for the remainder of the half without widening the gap.
Here’s how the Ireland fans reacted to that half on Twitter:
Could hear an English player on the ref mic shouting “Sexton! Sexton” at the breakdown. Three seconds later, Itoje flattens him late.
— Cian Tracey (@CianTracey1) March 18, 2017
https://twitter.com/nbrez/status/843151487631052804
The cynical hits on Sexton are scurrilous ! #IrevEng
— Gavin Highlife (@FMRadioGavin) March 18, 2017
@RTErugby @RTEsport @SixNationsRugby great try by henderson. We deserved that. What a game so far @IrishRugby #TeamOfUs #IrevEng
— Eoghan Ryan (@EoghanRyan13) March 18, 2017
https://twitter.com/IanFeerick/status/843153400145567749
So Ireland bring in the Ulster men finally for the most important game and Henderson delivers with a try. Boomtown lads.
— Succulent Chinese meal (@batmandan_) March 18, 2017
Iain Henderson with the try after peeling off dynamic @IrishRugby driving maul, Sexton converts, 10-3, 24 mins #IrevEng
— Dermot O'Mahony (@Dermotom) March 18, 2017
